چکیده:
A statement of the Problem: One of the richest sources of Iranian art is the miniature painting
in which the use of beautiful and well-designed motifs are abundantly visible in the form of
geometric, abstract or naturalistic motifs, and such motifs can also be seen in different branches
of this art, including illumination and Shepherd. The illustrated version of Jami’s Haft Awrang,
illustrated in the 16th century A. D. is one of the most famous and valuable manuscripts of the
Safavid period.
Research Objectives: The present study aimed at analyzing the illumination designs used in
the images of the Haft Awrang and also examining their features such as form, color, place of
application and the way these designs have been used.
Methodology: Data collection has been conducted with reference to written sources and the
obtained data has been examined using a descriptive-analytical method.
Research questions:
- What are the qualities of designs and motifs in the images of Haft Awrang?
- How is the use and method of Illumination in the illustrated version of the Haft Awrang?
Conclusion: The results indicate that the illumination motifs used in Haft Awrang images,
mostly include Palmette flowers and Khatayi designs as well as combined Khatayi and Arabesque
designs have been most frequently used in the illumination patterns of this illustrated manuscript.
Illumination designs have been depicted on the surfaces of buildings, tile works, domes, carpets
and rugs and occasionally in humans’ clothing and animal coverlets. Also, these designs have
played a significant role in promoting the decorative glory of the images and adjusting the
composition of the paintings. The plurality of the designs and decorative motifs in this illustrated
manuscript represents the decorative arts of the Safavid period and provides the virtuosos with a
comprehensive collection of Iranian decorative motifs in one of the most flourishing periods in
Iranian history of art.