Siyavush Recounts His Nightmare to Farangis

This artwork titled Siyavush Recounts His Nightmare to Farangis, is from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) which is attributed to Shah Tahmasp. It was made in Tabriz, Iran, around 1525–30 CE during the Safavid period and was written by the Persian poet Abu’l Qasim Firdausi in the the eleventh century. The book contains myths and information of legendary and historical kings and heroes of Iran. This particular illustration was commissioned for Shah Tahmasp and is one of the well-known arts of Persian manuscript painting. The illustration is attributed to the Iranian artist Qadimi, who worked under the supervision of Mir Musavvir, the workshop director. It is rendered in opaque watercolor, ink, silver, and gold on paper. The illustration depicts an episode where the Persian prince Siyavush tells his wife Farangis about a nightmare he experienced where he dreamt of catastrophic events that would eventually come true, including the destruction of his kingdom and his own death. In the illustration, the people are depicted within an interior consisting of architectural and decorative details. Siyavush and Farangis are shown occupying the central area, surrounded by attendants and objects. It can be noticed how instead of portraying a realistic, three dimensional space, the artist has depicted the scene through overlapping figures, patterned surfaces, architectural divisions, and vivid colours. It should also be noted that this illustration is part of a larger illustrated manuscript and is not an independent painting. The main theme of the illustration is prophecy, fate, and impending tragedy. Siyavush’s nightmare is depicted as a prophecy and thus his ability to foresee disaster creates tension because the viewer knows that the peaceful looking scene contains the warning of impending disaster. The contrast between the beautiful, vivid environment and the nightmare is an important symbolism. The luxurious setting portrays the wealth of the Safavid court, while the nightmare functions as a reminder that political power, prosperity, and even life itself are temporary. The depiction of intimacy between Siyavush and Farangis also makes the scene fanciful. The dream is communicated privately but it concerns events that will affect an entire kingdom. The illustration is characteristic of Safavid Persian miniature painting. Space is compressed and presented from multiple viewpoints rather than through a linear perspective. The vivid hues, intricate patterns, delicate outlines, and extensive decorative details are remarkable. Gold and silver give the manuscript a luxurious appearance.