Iranian artist Ali Bahreini has created two new paintings dedicated to the anniversary of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), utilizing episodes and themes related to the spiritual heritage and life of the Prophet.
These two works, titled 'Cave of Thawr' and 'Qurrat al-Ayn of the Prophet,' were created during the 'Prophetic Artistic Journey' seminar in Shiraz, according to the Mehr publication on Monday.
The painting 'Cave of Thawr' depicts the cave on Mount Thawr in Mecca where Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) hid from the Quraysh during the migration to Medina. When the Prophet left Mecca with Abu Bakr to avoid persecution, they found refuge in the cave on Mount Thawr while their pursuers searched for them. According to Islamic tradition, divine protection prevented the pursuers from discovering their hiding place; cobwebs and a bird's nest at the cave entrance are mentioned as signs that the cave was empty. This episode became a powerful symbol of trust, resilience, and divine protection.
Bahreini's second painting, 'Qurrat al-Ayn of the Prophet,' focuses on the Prophet's deep affection for his grandson, Imam Hussein (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), conveying the close spiritual and emotional bond between these two figures.
Numerous Islamic traditions describe the special place Imam Hussein (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) held in the heart of the Prophet, portraying him as the Prophet's beloved family member. This connection has made the relationship between the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and Imam Hussein (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) an enduring theme in Islamic religious culture, symbolizing familial love and the spiritual significance of the Prophet's family.
These canvases were created as part of the seminar held in Shiraz to celebrate the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), merging religious motifs with contemporary Iranian painting traditions.
The works enrich Bahreini's body of religious art, through which he explores important figures and narratives from Islamic history, presenting them using a visual language based on Iranian religious and artistic traditions.
The birthday of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) is celebrated by Muslims worldwide as an occasion to celebrate the Prophet's life and message of compassion, unity, and faith. In Iran, this date is observed as part of the Week of Islamic Unity, which begins on 12 Rabi' al-Awwal and continues until 17 Rabi' al-Awwal—the date traditionally marked by Shia Muslims as the Prophet's birthday. This event is accompanied by religious ceremonies, cultural events, and gatherings aimed at strengthening Islamic unity.