Iranian inlay artist Hamed Asgarian donated his conceptual work, 'Blood of God,' which was created under the influence of the tragedy of Ashura, to the museum of the holy mausoleum of Shah Abdol-Azim al-Hasani (AS) in Rey.
This donation took place during Asgarian's exhibition titled 'Inlay... Another Form,' held at the Rayzan International Conference Center on September 28 and 29. According to the Mehr publication, the exhibition presented a collection of Asgarian's works that combine natural wood, geometry, nature, and cultural narratives, demonstrating inlay from a modern perspective.
One of the key moments of the exhibition opening was the presentation of the work 'Blood of God' to the holy mausoleum museum of Shah Abdol-Azim al-Hasani (AS). The ceremony was attended by Ali Ansaryan, the general director for cultural affairs of the holy mausoleum, and Mehdi Barari, the head of its museum.
Created in August 2022, the work 'Blood of God' measures 74 by 53 centimeters and weighs 4.75 kilograms. This conceptual composition is made from natural, dried wood that has not been treated or further decorated to preserve the natural texture and character of the material.
The piece draws inspiration from the events of Ashura and the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS). Its visual structure combines contrasting areas of light and darkness with elements symbolizing earth and sky, while two glowing circles resemble a symbolic depiction of Karbala. The accompanying description refers to Imam Hussein (AS) as the 'blood of God' and recalls the moment his head was raised on a spear, comparing this scene to the appearance of two suns in the blood-red sky of Karbala.
By donating 'Blood of God' to the museum, Asgarian placed a contemporary work inspired by one of the most enduring narratives of Iranian religious and cultural memory into the permanent museum collection. This work can now become part of the institution's visual archive, reflecting modern artistic interpretations of Ashura.
Asgarian, who holds degrees in mechanical engineering and operations research, combined his engineering experience with many years of experience in inlay. His creative practice has led to the formation of a unique style known as 'Chiltahini.' In works executed in this style, geometry serves not merely as a decorative element but as a structural principle. Repeating hexagonal shapes are combined with pieces of wood retaining their natural texture, creating a visual balance between geometric precision and the organic qualities of nature.
The exhibition, curated by Sara Golestani with artistic direction by Mona Fahmideh, aimed to take inlay beyond its traditional connection with crafts and decorative arts, exploring its potential as a contemporary art form.
Previously, Asgarian has exhibited his works in countries such as the Netherlands, Turkey, Costa Rica, Oman, and Spain. His work 'Family' attracted attention at an international competition in Costa Rica, and 'Tawaf-e Del' (Circumambulation of the Heart) is registered in the collection of the National Library and Archives of Iran.
Ashura is observed on the tenth day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, marking one of the most important events in Islamic history: the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS), grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In 680 AD, Imam Hussein led a small group of family members and companions against the vast army of Yazid I, the Umayyad Caliph, on the plains of Karbala in modern Iraq. This conflict was not merely a political struggle for power but a profound moral stance against tyranny and injustice. Despite the numerical superiority of his opponents and the denial of water access for several days, Imam Hussein and his followers firmly adhered to their principles until his ultimate martyrdom.
The legacy of Ashura transcends time and geography, serving as a universal symbol of the struggle between truth and falsehood. For millions of people around the world, Imam Hussein is revered as the 'Prince of Martyrs' and an eternal symbol of courage, self-sacrifice, and integrity. His refusal to swear allegiance to a corrupt ruler, even at the cost of his own life and the lives of his loved ones, continues to inspire movements for liberation and human rights. Today, Ashura is commemorated through mourning rituals, processions, and reflections on the enduring victory of the oppressed over the oppressors.