31.01.2006 to 01.05.2006
In the 13th century, the scholar al-Qazwini, working in the field of nature studies, was the first to thoroughly explore and document the different species of birds. The world of birds soon became the favourite theme of Iranian decorative art, with particular focus on fantasy birds with magnificent feathers. Lifelike representations of birds came into being during the time of the muslim rulers of Northern India (16th/17th centuries). The exhibition at the Pergamon Museum presents pictures of wild birds as well as falcons trained for hunting. These are complemented by representations of butterflies and insects, whose delicate, most subtly rendered wings offset the glimmering beauty of the birds' coats.
Organizer
