"The Angel Gabriel Reveals Sura Annama 55 to the Prophet," Folio from a Hamla-yi Haidari (Attack of the Lion)

19th century

Not on view

This illustrated folio is from a Shi'i epic recounting the life of 'Ali, the Prophet's son-in-law and, according to Shi'is, the legitimate successor to the Prophet. It depicts the Angel Gabriel revealing the Sura 55 (Sura Ma'ida) to the Prophet. The Prophet is depicted with a white face-veil while 'Ali's face is in full view. The style and palette are consistent with paintings of the 1820's and 30's. Shi'i epics were a popular genre in the Qajar period although only a few illustrated manuscripts survive, making this a rare example from the period.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: "The Angel Gabriel Reveals Sura Annama 55 to the Prophet," Folio from a Hamla-yi Haidari (Attack of the Lion)
Date: 19th century
Geography: Made in Iran
Medium: Opaque watercolor, gold, and ink on paper
Dimensions: H. 13 13/16 in. (35.1 cm)
W. 8 5/16 in. (21.1 cm)
Classification: Codices
Credit Line: Purchase, 2017 and 2018 NoRuz at The Met Benefits, 2019
Object Number: 2019.318
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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"Salman-i Farsi's Conversion," Folio from a Hamla-yi Haidari (Attack of the Lion), Ink, opaque watercolor, silver, and gold on paper — "Salman-i Farsi's Conversion," Folio from a Hamla-yi Haidari (Attack of the Lion)
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