Ayman Abdul Qader stands inside his booth at the Baghdad International Book Fair, displaying a collection of vintage typewriters, cameras and antique decorative pieces gathered from various countries. Photo by 964media.
Kurdish collector’s vintage typewriters turn heads at Baghdad book fair
BAGHDAD — A display of vintage typewriters and antiques by a young Kurdish collector is drawing crowds at the 2025 Iraq International Book Fair, where visitors say the pieces offer a tangible link to the early days of modern publishing.
Among the items on show are Imperial typewriters from the 1930s used during the reign of King George V, arranged as part of a cultural corner at the Al-Mada Foundation’s annual fair. The collection has resonated with publishers, writers and academics who see the machines as reminders of how books and manuscripts were once produced.
“We came to Baghdad to participate in the Baghdad International Book Fair hosted by the Al-Mada Foundation,” said collector Ayman Abdul Qader, who previously exhibited at the Erbil Book Fair, which he described as “a wonderful and very successful event,” motivating him to bring some of his rarest pieces to Baghdad.
The fair is one of Iraq’s largest cultural gatherings and typically spotlights authors, publishers and artists. Collectors of historical objects are less common, something Abdul Qader said has made his presence stand out, especially for visitors who rarely encounter such items up close.
Born and raised in England, Abdul Qader spent part of his teenage years in Erbil, where his interest in antiques deepened. “During my upbringing, I enjoyed collecting antiques, then I decided to focus on rare pieces and finding new homes for them,” he said.
He added that typewriters have a symbolic place at a book fair because they “remind us of the beginnings of modern publishing.” The machines, sourced from several countries, include some of the oldest items in his collection and illustrate the evolution of writing tools that came before digital production.
Visitor Kawther Rahim said the display adds a distinctive touch to the exhibition. She told 964media that “these things are rarely seen, and their presence at the exhibition is special.” She described the typewriter as “a classic item and more beautiful than using a phone,” adding that electronic reading is different from printed books, which feel “more tangible, and you have a sense of ownership, and you can return to it at any time.”
Beyond the typewriters, Abdul Qader’s booth features vintage cameras and accessories, brass scales, traditional metalware, old vases and ceramic sets. Shelves behind him are lined with miniature model cars, ornate containers, lighters and small desk antiques, creating a curated space that reflects his broader interest in historical objects from around the world.