c. 1480

Malik Suffers from the Effects of a Magical Potion

The Khavarannama is a fantastical account of the travels and travails of ’Ali, cousin and son-in- law of the Prophet Muhammad, and his companions Malik and Abu’l Mihjan. Here Malik succumbs to the effects of a magical potion, from which he eventually recovers. A colorful rug, blue-and-white porcelain bowls, and metal vessels provide the setting of an outdoor royal court. The controlled refinement of the carpet’s intricate, scrolling design contrasts with the lush, organic quality of the flowers that dot the pink-and-lavender hillside.