30 October 2009
Smithsonian Museum’s Sackler Gallery Hosts Iranian Art Exhibition
More than 60 works on display until January 2010
Washington — Interpreting dreams and discovering the unknown through a form of astrology was a common practice in the Islamic world throughout history. Many kings would not go into battles without augury or consulting their astrologer regarding the position of the stars or opening the Quran for omens. In Iran, the great poet of the 13th century, Hafez, was named “Lesan-Algheyb” (Possessor of the Hidden Knowledge) and to this day, some people refer to his book of Ghazals (sonnets) before making decisions.
On October 24, the Smithsonian Museum’s Sackler Gallery in Washington opened the first exhibition of the Falnama (Book of Omens). Falnama is a series of vivid, illustrated manuscripts drawn by painters and illustrators at the order of the Safavid kings in Iran and Turkey in the 16th and 17th centuries. These enormous manuscripts illustrate themes of religious significance and were used as a means of telling the future.
The exhibition was made possible with support from American trusts and Iranian private collectors, as well as many cultural and historical heritage foundations.
In addition to the more than 60 works featured in the gallery, visitors can also view a detail of a Falnama created by American mural artist Michael Kirby, on display outside the gallery.
The exhibition continues through January 24.
