From now till January 2011, a collection of 50 specially selected official state gifts, on loan from the Istana, are being displayed outside of their comfort home at the the National Museum.

This exhibit showcases some exquisite gifts received by the six Presidents of Singapore during the period between 1962 and 2009.

As emblems of international cooperation and friendship between Singapore and these countries, the exchange of gifts between heads of states tells the story behind diplomatic relations and cultural ties.  Expect to see a fascinating array ranging native arts such ceremonial daggers from Timor Leste and decorative vases from Poland to the sparkling crystals, gold and silverware from Cambodia, Morocco as well as the People’s Republic of China. Each item has details on its origins and the occasion on which the gift was presented.

The oldest artefact on display is the Silver Punch Bowl with Black Stand. This was presented by then Prince Norodom Sihanouk of Cambodia to the late Encik Yusof Bin Ishak in 1962 − Singapore’s first President (1965–1970).

From Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to President S R Nathan, is the pair of silver goblets. One of them is engraved with Singapore’s coat of arms and the other is embossed with Queen Elizabeth II symbol “E.R.”. This pair of goblets was, presented in 2006 during the Queen’s third visit since Singapore’s independence in 1965.

As with all showcases of gifts between famous figures, the viewer’s pleasure often resides in guessing the intent of the items and the cultural significance behind each. And perhaps the awe that a mere pane of glass separates one from something that had travelled the high seas and passed some very famous hands.

Presidential Presents runs from now till 9 January 2011, 10am to 8pm daily at the Balcony, Level 2. There is no admission fee for this exhibit.