"Gol o Morgh" painting is a term used to describe a type of traditional Iranian painting that depicts flowers, leaves, and birds like nightingales, and sometimes butterflies. Let's explore this art form with Saed News.
"Gol o Morgh" is the most familiar style in Iranian miniature painting, characterized by its depiction of flowers and birds. As the name suggests, it consists of two main elements: flowers and birds. In this art form, the flower and the bird are often portrayed in a lover-and-beloved scenario, where the bird is the lover and the flower is the beloved. This theme is frequently referenced in Persian literature, such as in a poem by Hafez:
"The nightingale’s only thought is that the rose has become its beloved, and the rose contemplates how it will seduce the nightingale."
The conversation between the flower and the bird is sometimes also compared to the glorification of God and the remembrance of the divine. The creation of harmony between the elements in "Gol o Morgh" painting is intricate and delicate. The bird does not necessarily need to be depicted in every artwork, but when included, it represents a patient, anticipatory stance waiting for the flower to bloom.
"Gol o Morgh" has a long history in Iranian art and is considered one of the branches of traditional arts and crafts. It has acquired symbolic meaning in Iranian culture, often representing the divine blessing and the delicate manifestation of the creator. This art form flourished after the Timurid era and was commonly used for decorating various handicrafts such as book covers, mirror frames, pen boxes, jewelry boxes, textiles, and more.
The theme of the flower and bird represents an indescribable love story, one that has existed in Persian literature throughout history. In this narrative, the flower is the beloved and the nightingale is the lover, with the flower symbolizing God and the bird representing the devotee. The bird constantly flies around the flower, and by illustrating this motif in art, Iranian artists have integrated nature, especially the concept of a heavenly garden, into daily life.
Historical evidence shows that plant motifs in Iran date back to prehistoric times, first appearing on pottery and evolving during the Achaemenid, Parthian, and Sassanian periods. In the early centuries after the arrival of Islam in Iran, motifs were heavily influenced by Sassanian designs. For example, during the Seljuk era, Sassanian-like plant motifs appeared alongside geometric designs. These motifs and illustrations gradually evolved into the art of Persian illumination, gaining significant importance in Iranian art.
From the 7th and 8th centuries AH, floral and bird motifs in Iranian art gained more prominence and, after the Safavid era, developed into a distinctive and meaningful "Gol o Morgh" style during the Zand period. By the early 11th century AH, the first works of art embodying "Gol o Morgh" began to appear through single-sheet painters commissioned by patrons.
The "Gol o Morgh" motif is often seen on various crafts such as pottery, metalwork, and tiles. The most common application of this design is in the decoration of various traditional Persian handicrafts, including pen cases, book covers, mirrors, and other decorative items.
The coloring in "Gol o Morgh" and, generally, Iranian miniature painting is not realistic. Artists have considerable freedom in choosing colors. Besides the distinctive theme, another notable feature of this art is the meticulous and intricate execution. Initially, this art was only used to decorate the covers of the Quran and religious books, but nowadays, it can be found on a variety of surfaces, such as pen cases, mirror frames, jewelry boxes, and even independent artwork.
In traditional Islamic Iranian designs, the Simurgh is one of the most significant and symbolic birds. Known as "Anqa" in Islamic culture, it has divine attributes. The Simurgh is also mentioned in Persian poetry, particularly in the Shahnameh. It is one of the most important birds in "Gol o Morgh" art.
The "Gol o Morgh" motif is widely used in the decoration of various Iranian handicrafts, such as enamelwork (minakari) and metal engraving (qalamzani). This design is also found in the winding patterns of mosque and shrine tiles, where the flower and bird motifs are intricately integrated.
Metal engraving, or "qalamzani," is one of the oldest and most authentic Iranian crafts, particularly prevalent in Isfahan. The "Gol o Morgh" motif is a common feature in the artworks produced by metal engravers, seen on engraved copperware, picture frames, and other decorative objects.
Enamelwork, or minakari, is known as the art of fire and water. The turquoise blue color in enamel objects evokes a sense of tranquility. One of the most important motifs in this craft, especially in the "pordaz" style, is "Gol o Morgh." The intricate curvatures of the flower petals and leaves create a harmonious space where birds are depicted, symbolizing hope for the future and peace.
The primary material used in "Gol o Morgh" painting is the surface on which the artwork is created. If you're just starting, it's recommended to use regular A4 paper or cardboard (such as Fabriano or Schmincke paper) for the designs. Keep in mind that this art can also be applied to boxes, pen cases, book covers, mirror frames, and various other surfaces.
For the delicate lines and details, it is best to use fine pencils or mechanical pencils. Natural hair brushes are used for coloring, with the finest brushes (size #1) being most commonly used in "Gol o Morgh" paintings.
The brushes used in miniature painting are soft and specifically designed for watercolors. Professional artists use brushes made from the hair of cats, squirrels, or other animals. These brushes are carefully crafted by artists themselves, though ready-made brushes are now widely available.
Gold and silver sheets are essential elements in the art of "Gol o Morgh." These sheets were traditionally hammered and shaped between layers of deer skin before being dissolved in adhesive for use. Today, gold and silver leaf as well as ready-made metallic paints are available in the market, making it easier to incorporate these elements into artwork.
This type of painting holds great value due to its fine details and the time spent on its meticulous work. It is best to practice this style on canvas, boxes, and luxurious pen cases before progressing to more detailed pieces. "Gol o Morgh" art, with its graceful execution, is an enduring symbol of love and divine beauty in Iranian culture.
