Not currently on display at the V&A

Poster

ca. 1990 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

In Iran, religious posters are commonly displayed in homes, workplaces and religious buildings. This poster depicts Al-Abbas at the Battle of Karbala in 680AD. The battle was a significant defeat for the followers of Ali, who was the son in law of the prophet Muhammad and the father of Al-Abbas. During the battle, Al-Abbas, his brother Hussayn and their family were killed by a rival who wanted to lead the Muslim people. This poster depicts Al-Abbas collecting water for his family, shortly before he was killed by the rival army. Iranian Shi'ite Muslims still mourn those that died at Karbala, during the month of Muharrem. Special ceremonies are held and posters such as this one are displayed to remeber the events that led to their death.



Object details

Category
Object type
Materials and techniques
Paper with printed design in coloured ink
Brief description
Poster, paper with printed design in coloured ink, Al Abbas ibn Ali at the water, Iran, ca. 1990.
Physical description
Poster, paper with printed design in coloured ink. The central image depicts Al Abbas on his knees at the side of a river. He is wearing a gold helmet with two white feathers and a chain mail vest; at his left side is a sword in a scabbard and on his right a leather pouch. His two hands are cupped together in front of him and water is dripping through his fingers. His head is turned slightly to his left. Behind him are palm trees and the outline of an encampment. Above his head is a Persian inscription in yellow lettering. Surrounding the image is a border of walnut effect
Dimensions
  • Length: 98.5cm
  • Width: 60.1cm
Production typeMass produced
Credit line
Given by Dr Patricia L. Baker
Subjects depicted
Place depicted
Summary
In Iran, religious posters are commonly displayed in homes, workplaces and religious buildings. This poster depicts Al-Abbas at the Battle of Karbala in 680AD. The battle was a significant defeat for the followers of Ali, who was the son in law of the prophet Muhammad and the father of Al-Abbas. During the battle, Al-Abbas, his brother Hussayn and their family were killed by a rival who wanted to lead the Muslim people. This poster depicts Al-Abbas collecting water for his family, shortly before he was killed by the rival army. Iranian Shi'ite Muslims still mourn those that died at Karbala, during the month of Muharrem. Special ceremonies are held and posters such as this one are displayed to remeber the events that led to their death.

Collection
Accession number
ME.24-2011

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Record createdFebruary 3, 2011
Record URL
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