The ‘Buraq’ in Art

‘The Buraq’ –  a mythological steed with many amazing qualities has been the subject of artists for years.

With its range of footsteps equalling its range of vision, the Buraq transported Prophet Mohammad from Mecca to Jerusalemand back.

A few pieces of art depicting the Buraq

Persian, 15th century, from a manuscript entitled Miraj Nama, which is in the Bibliotheque Nationale, Paris

Persian, 15th century

Persian 15th century

From a copy of the Bustan of Sacdi, dated 1514. From Bukhara, Uzbekistan. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

from Jami’ al-Tawarikh, Persia, 14th century, now in Edinburgh University Library, Scotland

The Sahih-al-Bukhari describes the Buraq as  ‘ an animal white and long, larger than a donkey but smaller than a mule’.

A verse formed in the shape of the Buraq, calligraphy screen print on raw silk from early 20th century, is also found in the wovensouls collection. (Sold)

Someday I hope to understand the meaning of the verses within and comprehend the beauty that the artist intended to convey through this art, in all its completeness!

jm

aug 2010