“Majma’ at-tawarikh”. Manuscript Page

This manuscript page comes from the historical chronicle Majma al-Tawarikh written by Hafiz-i Abru, the court historian of Shahrukh, the son of Amir Timur. Produced in Herat in 1425, the work represents one of the earliest Timurid attempts to compile a universal history from an Islamic intellectual perspective.
The miniature illustrates a symbolic scene of scholars presenting historical knowledge to a ruler. The seated monarch is depicted in the center of the composition, receiving scientists, which symbolizes the idea of the ruler as the patron saint of science and wisdom.
The artistic approach differs from heroic epics. Here, the painter emphasizes documentary precision, carefully depicting garments, courtly etiquette, and architectural elements reflecting Timurid court culture.
The page layout is equally significant. Persian text frames the miniature, while red rubrication highlights important names and events. Such integration of calligraphy and painting represents a high achievement of Timurid manuscript design.
This sheet reflects the cultural policy of Shahrukh, under whom Herat became one of the main intellectual centers of the Islamic world, continuing the traditions of Samarkand as the capital of science and art.