6 Dust Muhammad. Portrait of Shah Abu'l Ma‘ali. ca. 1556 Aga Khan Collection

Born in Herat in the late 15th century, Dust Muhammad had a lasting influence on art from the 1500s to the 20th century. His journey took him from the courts of Shah Tahmasp I to the Mughal emperors in India, where he created a rich tapestry of symbols in his miniatures and calligraphy. In his illustrations, such as the Shahnameh of Shah Tahmasp, Dust Muhammad depicted symbols of power and lineage, reflecting the cultural and spiritual ethos of his time. His mastery of calligraphy, influenced by mentors such as Shadishaha Qasim, further illustrates the enduring power of symbols in Islamic art. Dust Muhammad's treatises on Persian painting and calligraphy offer insights into the symbiotic relationship between art and society. Through his writings, he navigated historical and mythical narratives to illuminate the role of the artist in shaping cultural identity. His legacy is a reminder of the timeless appeal of symbols, bridging the gap between past and present and inviting contemplation of the mysteries of existence. Dust Muhammad's symbols continue to resonate, transcending the boundaries of time and space, reminding us of the profound impact of art on the human experience.