What documented Illumination (Tazhib) looks like
Reference photographs of documented Illumination (Tazhib) pieces, credited to their sources. Compare construction, surface and wear with any piece you are offered — a resemblance is not proof of origin.
Illumination (Tazhib) at a glance
| Persian name | تذهیب |
| Category | Book arts · Manuscript illumination |
| Main techniques | — |
| Typical materials | paper |
| Places of making | isfahan, tabriz, mashhad |
| Current vitality | Living tradition |
Understanding Illumination (Tazhib)
What Illumination (Tazhib) is and how it is made
History
Illuminated headpieces, medallions and borders are central to Timurid and Safavid manuscripts; contemporary illuminators work in both traditional and new formats.
Technique
Designs are drawn with compasses and rulers, then filled with gold (often shell gold) and mineral or organic pigments, outlined with fine brushes.
Collecting and identification
Gold flaking, pigment loss and later remounting of leaves into albums are common; leaves are often separated from original books.
This guidance is educational only and is not an authentication or valuation service.
General background on the craft, not a statement about any individual object; dates and attributions summarise common positions in the literature and remain under review. Read the full Illumination (Tazhib) entry.
Before you buy: what to inspect
- Under magnification, hand-painted work shows brushstrokes; prints show dot patterns.
- Gold on genuine illumination is applied by hand and catches the light unevenly.
- Check the paper: handmade paper has an irregular texture and edges.
Typical materials: paper.
Red flags: copies and 'Persian style' imports
- 'Giclée', 'art print' or 'reproduction' in the listing.
- Paintings on photo paper.
- Old-looking pages with modern printed text.
A genuine Illumination (Tazhib) piece should come with a named place of making in Iran (often isfahan, tabriz, mashhad) and a clear statement that it is handmade.
Questions to ask the seller
- Is this an original or a print?
- Who is the artist, and is it signed?
- What pigments and paper were used?
What affects the price
| Original vs. print |
| Artist |
| Detail and gold |
| Size |
| Age |
Care and cleaning
- Frame behind UV-filtering glass.
- Keep out of direct sunlight and away from damp.
- Handle with clean, dry hands at the edges.
Storage
- Store flat in acid-free folders.
- Keep humidity stable.
Shipping
Ship flat between rigid boards, or rolled only if the maker agrees.
Disclaimer
This guide is educational. It cannot confirm that any particular object is genuine, old or valuable. For important purchases, ask an independent specialist. Read the full Illumination (Tazhib) entry.