Bihzad
Overview
Bihzad (d. 1535) was a prominent painter during the later periods of the Persian Timurid and early Safavid dynasties. Renowned for his role as the director of the royal library and as a supervisor of the workshop involved in the production of illuminated manuscripts, Bihzad’s contributions to Persian art solidified his legacy in the annals of Islamic art history.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: بهزاد (Bahzād)
- Turkish: Behzād
Historical Context
Bihzad held prominent positions at the courts in Herat under the patronage of the Timurid dynasty and later under the Safavid rulers in Tabriz. His influence was significant in the development of Persian miniature painting, founding notable painting schools in both Herat and Tabriz.
Artistic Style and Contributions
Bihzad’s artistic style is distinguished by several key features:
- Liveliness of Paintings: His works are noted for their vivacious and animated qualities, bringing scenes to life.
- Sense of Movement: Unlike the static nature of many earlier Islamic paintings, Bihzad’s works often depict a dynamic sense of movement.
- Reality of Figures: His attention to detail and realism in human figures set his work apart, providing a vivid portrayal of their subjects.
- Individualization of Faces: Bihzad’s ability to capture individual characteristics in his portraits was groundbreaking, offering a unique personality to each figure.
- Subtlety of Coloring: The delicate and sophisticated use of colors, especially shades of blue and green, highlights his mastery and innovative approach to color application.
Places of Influence
- Herat: Known for his foundational work in Herat, Bihzad’s school became a hallmark of Persian art and culture during the Timurid period.
- Tabriz: His later work and influence extended to the courts of the Safavid dynasty in Tabriz, furthering his impact on Persian Art.
Suggestions for Further Study
For a deeper understanding of Bihzad’s life and contributions, consider exploring the following books:
- “Persian Painting: The Arts of the Book and Portraiture” by Sheila R. Canby
- “In the Workshop of Bihzad: Paper and Painting in Timurid Herat” by Eleanor Sims
- “The Art of the Persian Court: Painting in Iran and India under the Tughluq, Safavid, and Mughal Dynasties” by A.S. Melikian-Chirvani
Conclusion
Bihzad’s legacy endures due to his revolutionary contributions to Persian art and the world of Islamic art at large. His unique blend of lifelike representation, dynamic compositions, and exquisite use of color has left an indelible mark on subsequent generations of artists. Bihzad remains a pivotal figure in the study of Persian miniatures and the artistic heritage of Islamic civilization.
Key Takeaways
- Regarded as a master painter during the late Timurid and early Safavid eras
- Led royal library and manuscript workshops in Herat and Tabriz
- Known for his dynamic, lifelike paintings with unique individualization of faces and subtle use of color
- His schools and teachings influenced Persian art significantly
