Muhammad and Jibril visiting paradise
Images associated with the mi‘raj, the ascension of the Prophet Muhammad to the heavens, are far from rare in the Islamic tradition and appear to have increased in 16th century Iran. This large painting shows an angel and a veiled figure - possibly Jibril and Muhammad - and originally accompanied an illustrated version of Jami’s Tuhfat al-ahrar (The Gift of the Noble).
Several other classical Persian poems copied and illustrated under the Safavid dynasty (1501-1722) contain references to, and images of, Muhammad’s ascension, suggesting renewed interest in the narratives associated with the Prophet’s life and miracles. The practice of depicting Muhammad veiled and with a flaming halo symbolizing his prophetic light also became common at this time.
Details
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Title
Muhammad and Jibril visiting paradise
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Associated people
Prophet Muhammad (c. AD 570 - 632) (subject) -
Associated place
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Date
c. 1580 -
Material and technique
ink, colour, and gold on paper
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Material index
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Technique index
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Object type
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Dimensions
30.2 x 18.5 cm (height x width) -
No. of items
1
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Credit line
Bequeathed by Christopher T. Gandy, 2012.
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Museum location
Museum department
Eastern Art
Accession no.
EA2012.36
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