INNOVATIVE APPROACH OF KAMĀL AL-DĪN BIHZĀD IN PERSIAN MINIATURE PAINTING

Abstract

This specific research is a literature review-based study which is primarily intended to explore the innovative approaches of Kamāl al-Dīn Bihzād in Persian miniature painting. In this research, without focusing on historical features, it is tried to study the Herāt School and its features as well as introducing Kamāl al-Dīn Bihzād, who is undoubtedly among the important agents of the growth and promotion of Herāt School. Various medieval Persian and modern European scholars are considered to study their researches regarding Bihzād and his art. This historical research is analytical and descriptive in nature. After giving a brief introduction of Herāt School and Bihzād, study is furthered developed by discussing some major works of Bihzād. The sample of the study is consisted upon three paintings showing evolving phases of Bihzād’s work. Each painting is discussed in the light of reviews of different scholars. At the end of the paper conclusion is drawn that Bihzād’s matchless style played an important role in flourishing the Persian art of miniature painting.