Poets of Iran and Iranian Lion
The artist describes this bas-relief as "a testament to the power of poetry as a cornerstone of Persian identity."[1] Each of the six upright figures represents a poet that played a pivotal role in shaping Persian language, literature, and thought. From left to right these include: Ferdowsi (940–1020); Omar Khayyam (1048–1131); Nezami Ganjavi (d. 1209); Rumi (1207–1273); Saadi (ca. 1213–1291); and Hafez (ca. 1325–1390). Each is distinguished by symbols that speak to their respective contributions to poetry and culture. A lion behind the six poets serves as a symbol of strength and protection as well as structural support for the relief. Just as the poets stand as pillars of modern-day Iran’s literary and cultural heritage, the lion holds the relief together, embodying the foundational role of poetry in defining Persian/Iranian identity.
[1] Artist statement, February 7, 2025.
[1] Artist statement, February 7, 2025.
Artwork Details
- Title: Poets of Iran and Iranian Lion
- Artist: Parviz Tanavoli (Iranian-Canadian, born Tehran, 1937)
- Date: 1961
- Medium: Copper
- Dimensions: 38 × 69 × 4 in. (96.5 × 175.3 × 10.2 cm)
50 lb. (22.7 kg) - Classification: Sculpture
- Credit Line: Gift of Manouchehr Azad, in memory of his wife, Lila Mae Schneider Azad, 2025
- Object Number: 2025.279
- Curatorial Department: Modern and Contemporary Art
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