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Nushirwan Listens to the Owls (recto): Illustration and Text, Persian Verses
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Nushirwan Listens to the Owls (recto): Illustration and Text, Persian Verses
XOS5871222 Nushirwan Listens to the Owls (recto): Illustration and Text, Persian Verses, from a Manuscript of the Khamsa of Nizami, Makhzan al-Asrar [Treasure of Secrets], 1555-65 (opaque watercolor, ink and gold on paper); 32.7x21.8 cm; Cleveland Museum of Art, OH, USA; (add.info.: Iran, Qazvin, Safavid period (1501-1722)
This scene is from the Makhzan al-Ashrar, the first of the Quintet. Although more historically oriented than the following poems, it served more as a vehicle for moralizing tales than for historical events. In this scene Nushirwan asks the sage Buzurgmihr to explain what the owls perched on a ruined building are saying. He explains that one owl is offering the other as many ruined cities as he likes in exchange for his daughters hand. He thus reproves Nushirwan for his love of conquest and war and the consequent destruction of many cities.); out of copyright
Media ID 23267940
© Bridgeman Images
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print titled "Nushirwan Listens to the Owls" transports us back in time to the Safavid period in Iran. The artwork, part of a manuscript called Khamsa of Nizami, Makhzan al-Asrar (Treasure of Secrets), was created between 1555 and 1565. The scene depicted here is from the Makhzan al-Asrar, which is known for its moralizing tales rather than focusing on historical events. In this particular moment, we witness Nushirwan seeking wisdom from the sage Buzurgmihr as they observe two owls perched on a ruined building. Curiosity piqued, Nushirwan asks Buzurgmihr about what these owls are saying. The sage explains that one owl offers the other countless ruined cities in exchange for his daughter's hand in marriage. This revelation serves as a powerful reproach to Nushirwan's love for conquest and war, highlighting how such pursuits lead to destruction and loss. The intricate details of this opaque watercolor, ink, and gold artwork draw our attention further into its narrative. With dimensions measuring 32.7x21.8 cm, it showcases the skillful craftsmanship prevalent during this era. Now housed at the Cleveland Museum of Art in Ohio, USA, this remarkable piece invites us to reflect upon timeless themes such as power dynamics and consequences of actions through its rich symbolism and storytelling prowess.
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