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Bahram Gur Fights the KargBahram Gur Fights the Karg Reproduction print used by permission of the Harvard Art Museums

Bahram Gur Fights the Karg

Islamic; Persian, Il’Khanid. c. 1330–1340 C.E. Ink and opaque watercolor, gold, and silver on paper.

Curator Note

"A Persian hero fighting a unicorn-wolf. Bahram Gur, an ancient Sassanian King, is depicted in a Mongol style (wearing silks, Asian features) within a Persian epic poem. It shows how the Mongol conquerors (Il-Khanids) adopted Persian culture to legitimize their rule."

Form

  • Media: Ink, opaque watercolor, gold, silver on paper.
  • Style: Synthesis of Chinese landscape (twisted trees, rocks) and Persian narrative.
  • Action: Dynamic composition showing the moment of the kill.
  • Costume: Bahram Gur wears European fabric? but Mongol armor/crown.
  • Perspective: Flat, stacked perspective typical of Persian miniatures.

Function

  • Book Illustration: Part of the "Great Mongol Shahnama" (Book of Kings).
  • Legitimation: The Mongols wanted to link themselves to the ancient Persian kings.
  • Education: Teaching the moral virtues of kingship (bravery/justice).
  • Prestige: Commissioned by the Vizier for the Royal Library.
  • Entertainment: Recited and viewed in courtly gatherings.

Content

  • Bahram Gur: Sassanian King (historical figure) idealized as a hero.
  • The Karg: A mythical horned wolf/unicorn/rhino beast.
  • Weaponry: Bow and arrow, mace, sword (Mongol weaponry).
  • Chinese motifs: The background landscape is clearly influenced by Chinese scrolls.
  • Halo: Bahram Gur has a halo, signifying royal glory (farr).

Context

  • Shahnama: The Persian national epic written by Firdawsi (c. 1000 C.E.).
  • Il-Khanids: Mongols who ruled Persia; brought Chinese art influence (Silk Road).
  • Tabriz style: The workshop where this masterpiece was created.
  • Cultural Assimilation: Conquerors adopting the culture of the conquered.
  • The manuscript was broken up and sold page by page in the 20th century.