Archive for category: Culture

Illumination Manuscript, known as “Tazhib” in Persian, is a famous art in Iran. It has been used for many years to decorate buildings, books, works of art, and various objects. The fine details of this art have made it popular in industries such as printing and packaging. Some people think illumination is part of Persian miniature painting. However, its unique features have made it a separate art form over time. Iran has a long history and many great artists. Many Iranian artworks and handicrafts come from these artists.

If you want to learn about traditional Iranian arts and Illumination, read on. We will talk about the art of illumination, its uses, its different styles, and how it is different from miniature painting.

What is the Art of Illumination Manuscript?

The word “Tazhib” means “gilding” or “covering with gold,” and it comes from the Arabic word (ذَهَب) which means gold. The art of illumination includes designing, coloring, and gilding various motifs with geometric and plant motifs. These decorations are used to beautify the margins of handwritten books. These books include the Quran, religious texts, cultural and historical books, and collections of poetry. Illumination is a branch of Iranian miniature painting. An artist who deals with this art is called a “Mozheb.”

Types of Illumination Manuscript

Illumination is one of the most delicate Iranian arts and is a subset of visual arts. The designs are generally divided into three main patterns:

1. Islamic Patterns (Naghsh-e Eslami)
2. Khatayi Patterns (Naghsh-e Khatayi)
3. Tashir Patterns (Naghsh-e Tashir)

Islamic Patterns

Islamic patterns use geometric and regular shapes for illumination designs. These motifs often include Kufic script and are referred to as Islamic designs.

Khatayi Patterns

Khatayi patterns have interconnected flowers with intertwined stems and leaves. This type of illumination is often seen in the tile work of mosque entrances and historical monuments. Khatayi illumination became popular and reached its peak in the 12th century.

Tashir Patterns

Tashir patterns combine Islamic and Khatayi designs. This style often includes images of birds, animals, humans, and nature. Some designs also have mythical creatures. Tashir is also known as “Royanegari,” with famous designs, including animal fighting scenes. Tashir illumination is usually used in book designs, but animal motifs are not used in Quranic designs.

The dominant color in the Tashir style is gold. Other styles use a variety of colors derived from plants, minerals, and chemicals. Plant-based colors come from natural extracts such as walnut skin, tea, henna, and gum Arabic. Mineral colors are made from gold and other metals like silver, tin, lead, and copper. Different metal oxides create different colors. Chemical colors include oil paints, gouache, and watercolors.

Applications of Illumination Manuscript

Illumination has many branches, each used for different purposes. Some of the most famous uses of this art include:

Margin Illumination

Margin illumination involves the use of decorative patterns to frame pages of books, panels, or photos. This type is often used to decorate the Qurans, poetry collections, and historical books.

The designs in margin illumination are very detailed, and the colors are chosen to complement the text or image. This branch is also widely used in the printing industry.

Decorating Calligraphy and Large Panels

In this method, different parts of the panel and spaces between letters and words are decorated to enhance the visual appeal of the calligraphy. It often includes floral, plant, and animal motifs. Many decorative panels are appreciated by art lovers in this category.

Designing Textile Patterns

Illumination artists create various geometric, floral, and animal designs for carpets, rugs, lovers, and other textiles. Wall painting is another application used to beautify traditional and historical spaces.

Tile Design and Restoration of Historical Works

One of the most common uses of illumination is tile design for buildings and restoring historical monuments. Despite advancements in architectural designs and new styles, traditional motifs are still popular in construction.

Printing and Packaging Industry

Different branches of illumination are used in the printing and packaging industry. For example, we can mention postcards and certificates of appreciation. Many shops sell illuminated works, and there are technical schools and vocational training programs that teach different branches of illumination. Many students study these subjects and find work in various market sectors.

Schools of Illumination

The art of illumination has different schools, which are divided according to historical periods. The styles and methods of illumination artists in various historical periods caused changes in their artworks. Each school of illumination is named after the ruling dynasty of its time and includes various sub-branches.

These schools reflect the characteristics and states of the governments and artists of different historical periods. For example, artworks from the 10th century CE are known for their simplicity, while works from the 11th and 12th centuries CE are more cohesive. In the 13th and 14th centuries CE, illumination art became more luxurious and splendid. In the next two centuries, the 15th and 16th centuries CE, the art moved towards simplicity, delicacy, and increased elegance. Each historical period brought its own unique style to the art of illumination, which was influenced by the cultural, political, and social contexts of that time.

The different schools of illumination and their sub-branches are distinguished by diversity in designs, colors, patterns, and the arrangement of lines. For example, the Bukhara sub-branch of the Seljuk school commonly used dark and bold colors. The main schools of illumination are as follows:

Seljuk School

The most important feature of the Seljuk school of illumination is the use of Khatayi patterns instead of geometric lines. This style was widely used in religious books during this period and led to a shift from simple Kufic script to decorative Kufic, Thuluth, and Raqqa scripts.

Ilkhanid School (Tabriz)

During the Ilkhanid period, Tabriz was the capital and the main center for creating artworks in Iran. The kings and ministers of the Ilkhanid dynasty were great patrons of artists and the arts, leading to a flourishing of illumination. This school is also known as the “Tabriz School,” with many notable works remaining from Ilkhanid artists in this city. The Ilkhanid school is characterized by angular designs in illuminated works.

Ilkhanid period’s illumination has diverse star-shaped designs, such as eight-pointed and twelve-pointed stars in blue. The background of works from this period is often lapis lazuli, with large motifs. Manuscripts from the Ilkhanid period were written in broad Kufic script.

Timurid School (Herat and Shiraz)

The Timurid era is considered the peak period for the art of illumination. Sultan Baysunghur, one of the most famous Timurid rulers, had a great passion for illumination, calligraphy, and miniature painting and was skilled in these arts himself. He established a large library in Herat, where many artists began creating their works.

Timurid or Harat school illumination is known for its delicate and intricate decorations. Illuminators of this period used motifs of plants, nature, and birds in their designs. The most beautiful examples of Timurid illumination are religious texts and Qurans dedicated to Timurid kings, including Sultan Baysunghur. Gold and lapis lazuli were extensively used, and the Tashir style emerged during this period. The Shiraz, Tabriz, and Khorasan branches are sub-schools of the Timurid school.

Safavid School

During the Safavid period, illumination art remained at its peak. The Safavid school is known for designing the first, middle, and last pages of historical and religious books with Islamic patterns, Shamsa (sunburst), and Toranj (medallion) motifs. Bejeweling, or “Morssa,” was also introduced in Safavid illuminated works. In Arabic, “Morssa” means “decorated with jewels.”

The Safavid school is famous for designing the first, middle, and last pages of historical and religious books with Islamic motifs, Shamseh, and Tanraj. Bejol or Mursa is also introduced in Safavid’s gilded works. Mursa in Arabic means decorated with jewels.

Safavid illumination is characterized by blue backgrounds with prominent gold and silver motifs and the use of green, white, blue, and red inside decorations. Books from this period were written in Nasta’liq script, and some Qurans were decorated with gold.

Qajar School

In the Qajar period, the art of illumination did not have the same splendor as in previous eras, but around 50 exquisite works from this period remain. These artworks are now housed in museums such as Reza Abbasi, Malek, Parliament, and Golestan Palace. Most examples of Qajar illumination are found on the first and last pages of religious books, with some interesting decorations in the middle pages.

Qajar illumination is notable for its use of fine, orderly textures created with a needle in the gilding of artworks, a technique known as “Sanajaqneshan.”

Final Word

The art of illumination, known as Tazhib in Persian, is a beautiful and complex tradition in Iranian culture. This art has evolved during various historical periods, each with its own unique style and characteristics. From the bold designs of the Seljuk school to the delicate and elaborate patterns of the Timurid era and the vibrant and luxurious decorations of the Safavid period, illumination has always reflected the artistic spirit of its time. Though the Qajar period experienced a decline in its grandeur, the legacy of illumination continues to inspire and fascinate art lovers around the world.

If you are an individual who shows a deep love for Persian poetry or history, you might have heard about the great Persian poet and Sufi, Shams Tabrizi. He was the spiritual instructor of Mewlānā Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Balkhi, also known worldwide as Rumi. Nonetheless, the true identity of Shams Tabrizi is yet unknown and a mystery to historians since he spent most of his days traveling around various lands, but Rumi’s masterful books and poems have revealed bits of Sham’s identity to the world.

Shams Tabrizi Biography

Shams Tabrizi is a very popular historical figure in Persia. His name “Shams,” meaning “the sun” in Arabic and Persian, represents his personality and importance. Tabrizi refers to the city of Tabriz in Iran, where Shams was born. Shams was not only a poet in his time of living but also the most significant figure who changed Rumi’s way of thinking and his path in search of the truth. According to Rumi, Shams was the man who gave life to him, as Rumi defines his journey as being born once again in the same life.

Shams Tabrizi Childhood

Shams Tabrizi, like any other historical figure, was born into a family, lived his life, and finally vanished from this world without a trace. Even though his story still appears as an enigma to many, not knowing his true age or the authentic evidence about where he first stepped into the world of the living and how he died.

According to some historians, Shams Tabrizi was born in 1185 AD in the city of Tabriz, located in the Northwest of Iran. His childhood was very different from the other children around him. Shams was not very fond of going to school but preferred to study and read the books he selected for himself.

Being an incomparable child, his parents often found it difficult to communicate with him since his behavior was completely different from the children in his age. Shams Tabrizi faced many challenges in his life and oftentimes felt alone in the world, unable to communicate with others as no one understood him.

His Spiritual Journey

Therefore, he pilgrimaged to far lands to find people who spoke the language of mysticism and started learning from them. One of Shams Tabrizi’s teachers was Sheikh Abu Bakr Zanbil Baf of Tabriz, in which he taught Shams a lot.

Over the passage of time, Shams Tabrizi reached a high level of mysticism and spirituality where he no longer found the words of Abu Bakr meaningful; thus, once again, he let go of his teacher and continued his pilgrimage.

Ambiguous Identity

Because of his habit of continuous traveling and absence from fulfilling his spiritual journey, Shams Tabrizi’s personality is full of ambiguity and obscurity in all historical works. You will find countless portraits of Shams in various books and artworks, yet these images are mostly an uncertain prediction of his true features.

Shams Tabrizi Death

Just like his identity and life story, how Shams Tabrizi died will always be a mystery to us. However, there are certain estimations about the year of his passing, and some believe he passed away at the age of 63 in 1248 AD.

Shams Tabrizi and Rumi Story

All in all, the story of Shams Tabrizi and Rumi is one of the most magnetizing stories read by millions to this day. The story speaks both about Rumi’s journey, thoughts, and feelings during his change, as well as Shams’ teachings when Rumi was by his side.

In Rumi’s poetry, you often see him calling Shams with diverse titles, which depicts his love and respect for his teacher as he perceived Shams as the true face of God.

Life for Mewlānā Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Balkhi as a religious scholar was almost normal and in complete peace. At that time, Rumi was one of the scholars of Fiqh, which is Islamic jurisprudence, hadith (the words of Prophet Muhammed), and other religious education in the city. Rumi’s lectures were always filled with his eager students, enthusiasts, and devotees of Islam.

Perhaps it can be estimated that the turning point of Rumi’s life happened around the year 1240s when he met a wandering and mysterious Sufi named Shamsuddin Tabrizi in Konya, Turkey. It was Shams Tabrizi who was able to introduce Rumi to the deepest and highest levels of mysticism and turned him from a pious religious scholar to a passionate mystic and poet.

At the same time, Shams Tabrizi had dreamt about his mission in Konya that he had to find a scholar. So, he returned from his journey and was eager to convey his spiritual teachings to a student and find the person who would listen to his words of wisdom. Shams entered the city of Konya. Once Shams Tabrizi and Rumi met in the city, Rumi was bewildered by his words and presence. Eventually, he became Shamsuddin Tabrizi’s student, which led him to go through a massive change in his life.

You can learn more about Rumi and his life story by watching our YouTube video.

Most of Rumi’s students and followers did not even consider Shams worthy to keep up with their great teacher and did not even try to hide their jealousy and hatred towards Shams. Devotees of Rumi were afraid that the reputation and credibility of their great Sheikh would be tarnished by the companionship of Shams Tabrizi. But Rumi considered Shams to be the most perfect manifestation of God and expressed his love and devotion to him by composing poems and walking on his path.

Rumi was so shocked and amazed when he met Shams that he willingly gave up teaching in schools and mosques. Shams, the unknown teacher, encouraged the famous Mewlānā Jalāl ad-Dīn to abandon his teachings and transformed him into a different man, where instead Rumi began dancing Sama (the whirling dervish dance of Sufism), which then caused him to also write poetry by his own volition.

What Did Shams Say to Rumi?

We are not confident about the true story of Shams and Rumi’s first encounter because there are many and even contradictory narrations regarding their first encounter. Based on one of the narrations, Shams Tabrizi stops the teachings of Rumi and angers his devotees to ask a question from the great Mewlānā without respecting their customary manners. The surprised and angry students heard the question from Shams in that manner asking: Was Prophet Muhammad superior to Bayezid Bastami?

Rumi is completely confused by this question. “Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) is the head of all prophets. How can you compare Bayazid Bastami to him?” Rumi asks.

Shams asks again: You are pure and pious from what we know about you. But isn’t my dignity more significant than anything else?

Shams claimed Bastami had a higher spiritual position than Prophet Muhammed.

Rumi is surprised by the depth of the question. He immediately descends from his seat and finally answers that Muhammad is greater because Bastami had stopped at some point on his holy journey. While the way for the prophet is always open.

Shams Tabrizi questioned his beliefs further, and from then on, Rumi was attracted by the words and fascinated by the personality of this wandering mystic. From that day on, the two spent long hours alone with each other, learning the words of wisdom. Rumi saw the perfection and originality of a human being in Shams Tabrizi. Shams freed Rumi from the materialistic ties of the world and challenged the customs and beliefs that this famous scholar strictly adhered to.

Forty Rules of Love of Shams of Tabriz

“Forty Rules of Love” is the original name of a novel by Elif Shafak, which was translated into Persian as “Mellat-e Eshgh”. In this book, the forty rules of Shams Tabrizi are quoted from the character of Shams.

On the other hand, these rules are of Sufism and finding God through love and devotion, which were presented to Rumi by the great Sufi of the 7th century of the Islamic calendar, that is, Shams Tabrizi. In addition, these forty rules can help the lost individuals of the present age. This book represents the way of spiritual travel, a journey inside and outside.

“The Third Line,” is the title of another book about Shams Tabrizi written by Dr. Naseruddin Sahib al-Zamani, portraying Shams Tabrizi’s personality, words, and thoughts. The book contains the dialogues between Shams and Rumi and single quotes by Shams Tabrizi.

Shams Tabrizi Quotes from the Forty Rules of Love

Rule 1: The way we perceive God is a direct reflection of how we see ourselves. If God brings to mind mostly fear and blame, it means there is too much fear and blame welled inside our hearts. We are also full of love and compassion if we see God as loving and compassionate.

Rule 3: You can study God through everything and everyone in the universe because God is not confined to a mosque, synagogue, or church. However, if you are still in need of knowing where exactly His abode is, there is only one place to look for him: in the heart of a true lover. No one will live after seeing Him, and no one will die after seeing Him. Whosoever finds Him will remain in His company forever.

Rule 4: Intellect and love are made of different materials. Intellect ties people in knots and risks nothing, but love dissolves all tangles and risks everything. Intellect is always cautious and advises, ‘Beware too much ecstasy’ whereas love says, ‘Oh, never mind! Take the plunge!’ Intellect does not easily break down, whereas love can effortlessly reduce itself to rubble but treasures are hidden among ruins. A broken heart hides many treasures.

Rule 10: East, west, south, or north makes little difference. No matter what your destination, just be sure to make every journey a journey within yourself. If you travel within, you will travel the whole wide world and beyond.

Rule 13: There are more fake gurus and false teachers in this world than the number of stars in the visible universe. Do not confuse power-driven, self-centered people with true mentors. A genuine spiritual master will not direct your attention to himself and will not expect absolute obedience or utter admiration from you, but instead will help you to know and to appreciate your Inner-self. True mentors are as transparent as glass, ‘They let the light of God pass through them’.

Shams Tabrizi Poems

Shams Tabrizi did not enjoy writing and preferred speaking in his own words. The works left in the name of Shams are taken from the sayings of Shams in gatherings, which were later collected and written by Rumi and his entourage.

In the collection of Shams Tabrizi’s quotes, the book contains questions, answers, and discussions that were exchanged between Shams and his students. These dialogues have an interesting story in their hearts that Rumi taught to his students during his association with Shams Tabrizi and after him. His disciples collected them and wrote them down. The subject of these stories is the personality and life of Shams Tabrizi in Konya, his relationship with Rumi, and the anecdotes that Shams taught Rumi through them.

Divan-i Kabir, also known as Divan-i Shams and Divan-i Shams-i Tabrizi, are Rumi’s works attributed to Shams Tabrizi. The Divan-i Shams-i Tabrizi is one of the works of Mawlānā Jalāl-ad-Dīn Muhammad Balkhi, which he registered the book under the name of Shams Tabrizi.

Shams Tabrizi Miracles

One day, Shams entered the school of Konya, where Rumi was reading his books. He asked Rumi, who had some other books placed next to him: “What are these?”

Rumi answered: “These are the books of Quotes and Sayings of the Prophet.”

“What are you doing with these?” Shams said and then threw the books into the nearby pond.

“Oh Dervish, some of these books are my father’s souvenirs and the unique and rare copies,” Rumi said.

Shams Tabrizi dipped his hand in the water and took the books out of the pond, but the books did not appear to be wet at all. They were as intact as they were before being thrown into the pond.

Rumi asked with surprise: “What is this secret?”

Shams answered: “This is the secret that you are not aware of.”

With this, Rumi’s nature changed, and he abandoned the lessons he taught and faced madness, then was born again. He achieved an esoteric experience that not everyone was able to understand.

Final Word

Mewlānā Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Balkhi, known as Rumi, is one of the most famous poets of Iran. During his 68 years of living, Rumi met great people such as Mohaghegh Tirmezi, Sheikh Attar, Kamaluddin Adeem, and Mohiuddin Arabi and learned a lot from them, but no one was as influential in his life as Shams Tabrizi. Furthermore, the stories about Shams Tabrizi are not proven to be fully authentic, and all the information we have about his life are the poems that Rumi has written in his epic books.

Are you planning to travel to Iran and looking for an Iran travel agency? Check out our Iran tours and feel free to contact us.

Iran was home to many artists, writers, and poets. Once upon a time, Iran was the central hub for education and knowledge, introducing many important faces and writers to the world of literature. Mawlana Jalaluddin Rumi, famous as Rumi, was one of the greatest poets in the world of literature and art. Rumi books and Rumi poems are some of those works that are admired beyond the borders of Iran. In this article, we will explore Rumi’s biography.

Rumi Biography

Born on September 30, 1207, in the city of Balkh (known as present-day Afghanistan), Rumi, also called Mawlana Jalaluddin Rumi, was a 13th-century Persian poet, theologian, and Islamic jurist. Rumi is famous and known as one of the greatest of his time in the history book and literature world.

Rumi has been taught from his childhood with the help of his father in fields such as religious studies, Islamic law, and philosophy. He spent much of his life in Konya (present-day Turkey) and received education in the city of Konya along with his family.

Rumi’s poems and books are known for spiritual experiences and emotions, and most of his works are in the Persian language as he had a profound interest in this beautiful Iranian language and spent some of his time in Iran.

Why Is Rumi Called Rumi?

Rumi, the famous poet, has many names but is mainly known as Rumi in English. The full name of Rumi is Muhammad bin Muhammad bin al-Husayn al-Khatibi al-Balkhi al-Bakri, which has an Arabic origin, but he is commonly known as Mawlana Jalaluddin Rumi, which Jalaluddin means “Glory of the Faith” in Arabic language.

He is also called Rumi, referring to his Roman origin and the Eastern Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire; the name “Rumi” was given to him to signify his connection with this region.

In other languages, Rumi also had various nicknames, one of which was Mawlana or Mowlavi. These terms were used by Iranian and Turkish popularities, and it means “our master and guide.”

The names of Rumi also had profound meaning, symbolizing his spiritual aspects and universal appeal.

Historical Period

The era of Rumi dates back to the 13th century, and he lived from 1207 to 1273. The historical period of Rumi is known as the Middle Ages or the Medieval Era, and Rumi’s lifetime falls within the Islamic Golden Age.

During Rumi’s time, the region where he lived belonged to the Seljuk Empire, and they were Turkic dynasty that ruled over a vast territory in the Middle East and Central Asia. We can easily explore the influence of Islamic thoughts in Rumi’s works and books and also the influence of Persian literature since the vast territory of the Middle East was a part of the Seljuk Empire.

Cultural Influence

Rumi is one of the greatest Persian poets in history, and his thoughts and philosophy were beyond his time. He had a great influence over spiritual concepts, and his poetry transcends cultural, religious, and linguistic boundaries. We can also see a lot of his thoughts in modern Western literature. Many Western writers, poets, and thinkers describe Rumi as the main inspiration for their works.

Later on, Rumi gained a wider popularity among the Western world in the 20th century and continues to captivate readers today. Today, many of Rumi’s books have been translated into many languages, and Rumi still draws the minds of readers to his interesting themes and topics.

Rumi’s Friends

Rumi had many friends and companions in his life, and some of them were also great people for themselves and had many fans and followers. One of Rumi’s remarkable traits was that he was a modest and humble person. He was also known as the Tree of Knowledge by his friends.

Shams Tabrizi was one of Rumi’s friends. He had a great influence on Rumi’s life, became Rumi’s spiritual mentor, and initiated him into the mystical path of Sufism. Another friend of Rumi was Salahuddin Zarkub, who was very close and loyal to Rumi and played a crucial role in spreading Rumi’s teachings. Husam al-Din Chalabi and Sultan Walad were also other significant friends of Rumi, and both of them had the responsibility to preserve and spread Rumi’s spiritual legacy. Sultan Walad was Rumi’s eldest son and a distinguished poet in his own right.

Rumi Books

Rumi’s books are mainly poetic works. His works are a collection of treasures as he explores many themes that are interesting to think about. The book of “Mathnavi,” known as “Masnavi,” written in the Persian language, is a six-volume collection of poetry that includes thousands of verses and stories with important themes.

Another book of Rumi is “Divan-e Shams-e Tabrizi,” a dedicated collection of poetry to his close friend, Shams Tabrizi. In this book, Rumi expresses his feelings to his friend, such as deep longing, love, and spiritual connection to Shams.

The book of “Fihi Ma Fihi” is another gem, which is a collection of Rumi’s discourses and lectures compiled by his disciples. This book showcases the thoughts and teachings of Rumi, which are a life lesson.

Rumi Poems

Rumi’s poems are known for their spiritual expressions and emotional beauty. Divine love and concepts of life and death are the key themes in his poetry. His poetry portrays love as a great force and guidance that can awaken the soul and mind.

We can also behold his spiritual journey by reading his poems, which is a process of purification, self-discovery, and inner transformation. Nature and Beauty, Unity and Oneness, and Symbols of Light and Darkness are other main themes that we can explore and notice in Rumi’s poems, which he can describe and showcase very well.

Known as the Whirling Dervishes, the whirling dance is also another concept that is seen as a physical expression of spiritual ascent and union with God. Overall, we can say that his poems are multi-layered.

What Is Rumi’s Most Famous Quote?

Rumi had a lot of quotes and sayings that each make you think and wander about the concepts of life. Choosing Rumi’s Most Famous Quote from many of Rumi’s Quotes is surely difficult. However, he has a saying about hopefulness that goes: “Where there is ruin, there is hope for a treasure,” meaning that in our darkest moments, we will find the light and the hope to live on; we should never accept to fail and always try our best.

Rumi’s quotes:

• “A Candle never Loses any of its Light while Lighting up another candle.”
• “You were born with wings, why prefer to crawl through life?”
• “Raise your words, not voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.”
• “Keep silent, because the world of silence is a vast fullness”
• “The garden of the world has no limit except in your mind”
• “To love is human. To feel pain is human. Yet to still love despite the pain is a pure angel.”

Why Is Rumi So Famous?

Rumi’s ideas transcend cultural, religious, and linguistic boundaries. Rumi’s poetry is a universal speaker that many humans experience and feel. Rumi’s books are translated into diverse languages, and many people in the world have felt a connection with his sayings and poems.

Moreover, even though Rumi lived in the 13th century, his teachings and poetry remain relevant in today’s world, and his insights provide a great experience into the nature of love, the human condition, and the pursuit of spiritual truth. So, as a result, Rumi was one of the greatest poets of all time.

Rumi Facts

1– Rumi’s companionship with Shams Tabrizi had a great impact on his life

2– Rumi’s most famous work is Masnavi.

3– Rumi established the Mevlevi Order, known as the Whirling Dervishes. The order is known for its distinctive spinning dance.

4– Rumi had a group of devoted disciples and followers who played a significant role in preserving his teachings.

How Did Rumi Die?

Rumi passed away in 1273 in Konya, Turkey. The cause of his death is unknown, however, there are myths and stories about his death that describe his reason for death.

One of the well-known stories says that Rumi died of a combination of physical exhaustion and grief for his beloved companion and friend, Shams Tabrizi, which shows his love and loyalty to his friend. Other stories describe a particular illness, possibly pneumonia, and suggest that the main cause of his death was his illness.

Nonetheless, Rumi’s legacy continues to thrive for centuries, and today, he is a well-known figure who lived as a legend beyond his time. Rumi’s shrine is located in Konya, Turkey.

Lastly

Mawlana Jalaluddin Rumi was one of the most important faces in literature. His works were beyond his time and geographical borders. Rumi was so admirable that his works were translated into many languages. Rumi poems and Rumi books remain a lasting legacy in both the Islamic world and Western society. Translation of the works of Mawlana Jalaluddin Rumi has sold more than half a million copies all around the world, making it an important literature role in various cultures and societies.

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Iran has a rich history of cinema that has been greatly influenced by its talented actors. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 10 Iranian actors of all time. These actors have made significant contributions to Iranian cinema over the years and continue to make an impact on the industry today. Here are the top 10 Iranian actors of all time.

Mohammad Ali Fardin

The first on our list is Mohammad Ali Fardin, born on January 14, 1931, in Isfahan, Iran. Fardin began his career as a professional wrestler and quickly gained fame in the 1950s. Fardin transitioned to acting in the late 1950s, making his movie debut in (The Lor Girl) in 1958. Some of his notable movies include Ganj-e Qarun, King of the Hearts, Prince Arsalan, and Gedayan-e Tehran.

He is considered the savior of Iranian cinema because Iranian movies did not sell well in those years, while Indian and Hollywood movies did. Mohammad Ali Fardin was not only a successful actor but also a cultural icon in Iran. He passed away on April 6, 2000, in Tehran, leaving behind a legacy that continues to be celebrated in Iranian cinema.

Behrouz Vossoughi

Behrouz Vossoughi is often referred to as the “King of Iranian Cinema” due to his significant contributions to the Iranian movie industry. Vossoughi began his acting career in the late 1960s and became one of the leading actors in Iranian cinema during the 1970s. Vossoughi’s performances were often characterized by his ability to portray complex characters with depth and emotion. Qeysar, The Deer, Toughi, Sooteh-delan, and Fellow Traveler are his most important movies of all time. Since he left Iran in 1979, he’s been involved in various international projects, mostly in the United States.

Ezzatollah Entezami

Ezzatollah Entezami’s filmography includes a wide array of notable works such as “The Report” (1977), “The House Is Black” (1962), and “The Grand Cinema” (1988). His commitment to the craft of acting and his ability to bring depth to his characters contributed significantly to the development of Iranian cinema. Also, He was particularly known for his roles in films that explored social and humanistic themes. One of his most iconic performances came in the movie “The Cow” (1969), directed by Dariush Mehrjui. See the top 10 Iranian movies played by some of these actors.

In this film, Entezami plays the lead role of Hassan, a villager who becomes emotionally attached to his cow. His nuanced and powerful performances earned him international acclaim, and he received numerous awards for his work, including the Silver Bear for Best Actor at the 5th Berlin International Film Festival in 1955 for his role in (The Blood of the Poet).

Ali Nassirian

Ali Nassirian (born on March 4, 1935) was a highly respected Iranian actor, director, and writer known for his significant contributions to Iranian cinema and theater. Ali Nassirian’s impact on Iranian cinema and the arts community was substantial, and he was considered one of the pillars of the industry. His career spanned several decades, including a variety of roles and projects that left a lasting mark on the cultural aspect of Iran. He has acted in many Iranian series, including Shahrazad, The Forbidden Fruit, Sarbedaran, and Hezar Dastan.

Khosrow Shakibai

Born on March 27, 1944, in Tehran, Iran, Shakibai played a significant role in shaping Iranian cinema during the 1970s and 1980s. He is the Hamoun of Iran Cinema because of his role in the Hamoun movie directed by Dariush Mehrjui. Tragically, Khosrow Shakibai passed away on July 18, 2008, at the age of 64. Despite his relatively short life, his impact on Iranian cinema is remembered, and his legacy continues through the movies and performances he left behind. We can mention some of his notable movies like Strange Sisters, The Night Bus, The Boss, and The Verdict.

Parviz Parastui

Parastui is one of the top 10 Iranian actors, who has established himself as one of the most versatile and respected figures in the Iranian movie industry. Parastui has collaborated with several prominent Iranian directors, contributing to the success of numerous movies. One of his notable roles was in the movie “The Circle” (2000), directed by Jafar Panahi, which won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival. Parviz Parastui’s career continues to thrive, and his dedication to the craft of acting has solidified his status as one of the preeminent actors in Iranian cinema. His performances continue to be celebrated for their authenticity and emotional resonance.

Shahab Hosseini

Shahab Hosseini, born on February 3, 1974, is a highly regarded Iranian actor known for his exceptional talent and captivating performances. One of Hosseini’s breakthrough moments came with his role in Asghar Farhadi’s film “A Separation” (2011), where he portrayed the character of Hojjat. He has many successful collaborations with the Top 10 Iranian Movie Directors.

His compelling performance earned him the Silver Bear for Best Actor at the Berlin International Film Festival, marking a milestone in his career. Shahab Hosseini’s filmography includes a variety of acclaimed works such as “About Elly” (2009), “The Salesman” (2016), and “The Night” (2019).

Peyman Maadi

Peyman Maadi is known for his powerful and emotionally resonant performances, often portraying complex characters with depth and authenticity. His breakthrough role came in the critically acclaimed film “A Separation” (2011), directed by Asghar Farhadi, where he played the character of Nader, a role that earned him the Silver Bear for Best Actor at the Berlin International Film Festival. Peyman Maadi established his position in Iranian cinema by acting in the films Life and a Day and Law of Tehran.

In addition to his success in Iranian cinema, Maadi has expanded his career to include international projects. He appeared in films such as “Camp X-Ray” (2014) and “Last Knights” (2015), showcasing his versatility on a global scale. Apart from acting, Peyman Maadi has ventured into directing and screenwriting. His directorial debut, “The Snow on the Pines” (2012), received critical acclaim for its exploration of complex social issues.

Navid Mohammadzadeh

Navid Mohammadzadeh rose to prominence with his role in the critically acclaimed film “Correction Class” (2014). However, he gained widespread international attention for his performance in “No Date, No Signature” (2017), directed by Vahid Jalilvand, which earned him several awards, including the Best Actor award at the Venice Film Festival.

His performances are often praised for their depth and authenticity, making him one of the notable figures in the new generation of Iranian actors. Mohammadzadeh sinks well into his roles. Along with Peyman Maadi, he has shown his acting ability well in the films Life and a Day and Law of Tehran. He recently married Fereshteh Hosseini, his co-star in the Frog series, and continues his successes in the world and Iran.

Hootan Shakiba

Hootan Shakiba is one of the promising Iranian Actors of the new generation of Iranian actors. He gained fame in the cinema for playing the role of Abdulhamid Rigi in When the Moon Was Full. He won the Crystal Simorgh for Best Actor for this role. Before he started working in cinema, we saw him in TV and theater.

He played the role of Habib in the Bachelors series and caught the eyes of the viewers. Hootan Shakiba continued his cinematic success with the films Pinto and Conjugal Visit. He also worked with Iraj Tahmasab in the Mehmooni series, the voices of the Bache and Shabash are his.

Last Word

Overall, Iranian cinema owes a great deal of its success to the contributions of these talented actors. Their performances have helped to shape Iranian cinema and continue to inspire new generations of actors and filmmakers.

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Khatam Kari (Marquetry) is a noble art that is used to decorate surfaces and is characterized by the placement of small and colorful polygons that are carefully arranged together. The goal is to create mosaic-like or triangle-like geometric patterns that result in a harmonious and complex design.

Beyond the decoration of wooden doors and windows, Khatam-Kari becomes especially important in sacred and historical places, often gracing items like chocolate boxes, nut bowls, sweet trays, jewelry boxes, Quran covers, penholders, clocks, and mirrors, adding a touch of elegance to everyday objects. Objects adorned with fine Khatam inlay, whether metal or wood, hold great material value and are considered precious artifacts.

In this article, we will delve into the history of Iranian khatam kari, explore the techniques for recognizing fine Khatam kari artworks, and familiarize ourselves with its various types and applications.

Khatam Kari History

The exact origin of Khatam Kari is somewhat unknown, and there are no definite records of its origin. But the oldest existing examples of this art date back more than a century and are found in the city of Shiraz, which especially adorns the minbar of Atigh Mosque. Shiraz is known as the birthplace of Khatam-Kari, although this art flourished in Isfahan during the Safavid era and eventually became synonymous with the city.

The peak of Khatam Kari development happened in the Safavid period. Artists from different cities were invited to the capital city, Isfahan, where they not only engaged in inlay work but also engaged in woodcarving, tile work, and knot work and participated in the construction of government buildings, palaces, and holy places.

However, in the Qajar era, like many other arts, Khatam Kari was neglected, and its prestige and importance decreased. Masters and craftsmen of this industry suffered hardships during this period.

Among the famous masters of this art in Shiraz and Iran, we can mention Abdul Khalegh Gholriz Khatami, known as the father of Khatam of Iran, the late Abdul Ali Gholriz Khatami, and Ahmad Rouhani, each of whom made a significant contribution to this field of art.

In addition, in the early Islamic centuries, there was a form of surface decoration or simple Khatam called “Khatam-e Moraba” in Iran. In this style, instead of triangles, different shapes of square, rectangle, parallelogram, and rhombus were used, which continues even centuries after the emergence of the modern form of Khatam.

What Is the Origin of Khatam?

The exact origin of Khatam is not exactly documented. But some of the oldest examples of Khatam Kari, dating back more than a century, can be found in Shiraz, Iran.

It is believed that Shiraz is the birthplace of Khatam Kari, although, during the Safavid era this art flourished in Isfahan. During this period, artisans from different regions were invited to Isfahan to participate in the decoration of government buildings, palaces, and holy places.

What Is Khatam in Persian?

Khatamkari, as mentioned in Persian encyclopedias, is the art of decorating surfaces in a mosaic-like manner using small triangles. The motifs in Khatam are continuous, geometric, and regular, which are obtained by arranging small triangles next to each other.

These triangles are made of different materials, such as wood, metal, and bone. The smaller and more complex the triangles are, the higher the quality of the inlay. In Khatam designs, at least three triangles are used to form the smallest geometric unit, while up to four hundred triangles may be used for larger designs.

What Is the Khatam Kari Technique?

The Khatam-Kari technique is a traditional Iranian art that involves decorating surfaces with intricate geometric patterns using small triangles made of materials such as wood, metal, and bone. Craftsmen have carefully arranged these triangles next to each other to create harmonious and orderly designs.

The quality of the seal depends on the delicacy and precision of the triangles used. Each design uses at least three triangles to form the smallest geometric unit, while larger designs may contain up to four hundred triangles. This technique requires skill, patience, and attention to detail, resulting in beautifully decorated objects enriched with cultural heritage.

What Is the Meaning of Khatam Kari?

In the dictionary of Dehkhoda, Khatam Kari is defined as:

“Khatam Kari” (compound noun) embedding bone in wood with carving and decoration.

Khatam-Sazi refers to Khatam-Bandi and Khatam-Sazi: Assyrians were skilled in the work of various industries, such as goldsmithing and Khatam-Kari. According to this definition, Khatam-Kari involves the process of embedding bone in wood, often with intricate carvings and decorations, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans.

What Is Persian Khatamkari?

Persian Khatamkari is a combination of regular polygons with different numbers of sides designed by artisans using different materials in specific colors. These polygons can have five, six, seven, eight, or ten sides and can be arranged on a surface to create geometric, mosaic-like, or triangular patterns.

The key aspect is the regularity of these polygons and their regular arrangement next to each other. The art of Persian Khatamkari consists of two main components: Khatam-Sazi, which includes the initial stages of creating polygons, and Khatam-Kari, which includes the stages of assembling, cutting, and finishing the work of art.

Khatam Kari Prices

Khatam-Kari prices vary depending on factors such as the size, design complexity, materials used, and the craftsmanship involved. Smaller, simpler pieces may be more affordable, while larger, more elaborate works of art made with delicate materials and intricate designs can have higher prices.

In addition, the reputation and skill level of the craftsman or workshop can also affect the cost. In general, the price of Khatam Kari varies from medium to high, which reflects the value placed on this traditional Iranian art and the careful attention to detail required in its creation.

Khatam Kari Box

A Khatam-Kari box is a stylish and beautiful wooden box that is used to store jewelry, money, and other valuables or as a gift. It is a precious and valuable gift item that is appreciated for its intricate Khatam-Kari decoration along with its well-made box and strong and graceful painting.

The beauty of the fine Khatam inlay on the box, along with the exquisite craftsmanship and beautiful design, help to the popularity of these boxes as admired items or gifts.

Khatam Kari Paintings

Khatam-Kari paintings are fine artworks that have complex geometric patterns created with the traditional Persian Khatam technique. These paintings often include a Khatam frame, adding elegance and cultural significance to the artwork. The frame surrounds the central painting scene, enhances its beauty, and provides a beautiful border.

Artists skillfully combine vibrant colors and precise geometric shapes to produce stunning compositions that capture the viewer’s attention. Khatamkari paintings are not only admired for their aesthetic appeal but also for their cultural heritage and craftsmanship in their creation.

Final Word

In conclusion, Khatam Kari is an amazing Iranian art known for its intricate geometric patterns and exquisite craftsmanship. From decorative boxes to stunning paintings adorned with Khatam frames, this traditional technique adds beauty and cultural richness to a variety of objects. Khatam Kari, this Persian handicraft, whether as a souvenir or a gift, is a reminder of Iran’s artistic heritage and should be on the list of must-buy items for travelers traveling to this country. Khatam Kari, with its beauty and cultural importance, continues to fascinate and inspire admirers all over the world.

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