Shirin - Khusrau
Discovering details from a 20th-century Persian carpet depicting a scene from the legendary love story of Shirin and Khusrau.
Persian carpet (1900/1950)Salar Jung Museum
Persian carpets are known for their intricate and symbolic designs, each rich with meaning and cultural significance.The thematic Persian carpet designs tell a unique story or reflecting a specific theme.
Khusrau and Shirin: A poem by Nizami
It is a romantic epic poem by the Persian poet Nizami Ganjavi (1141–1209) and the second work of his set of five poems known collectively as Khamsa.
Khusrau's journey
This detail from a Persian carpet shows Khusrau, a Sasanian prince, the central figure in the epic love story is depicted on horseback. His journey to Armenia is a key element of the narrative. He has heard of Shirin from his close friend Shapur and has fallen in love with her..
Depiction of the journey
Khusrau travels past palaces, hillocks, a pond full of fish towards another mountain where wild animals roam to find Shirin. Three borders around the main border depict Shikargah scenes. The border is also decorated with strange and wonderful creatures of almost mythical character and nature.
Khusrau sees Shirin
On his way to Armenia, Khusarau finds Shirin bathing and washing her flowing hair. Shirin also sees Khusrau, but since he was travelling in peasant clothes, they do not recognize one another.
A tragic end
Khusrau and Shirin's epic love story, full of adventure and challenges, ultimately ends in tragedy. Their story concludes with a shared grave, a poignant symbol of their intertwined fates.
Persian carpets have had a lasting impact on global art and design. Their influence can be seen in the textile arts of neighbouring regions, including Turkey, India, and China.
Today, Persian carpets are considered a symbol of Iranian culture and craftsmanship and are still highly sought after for their beauty and historical significance.
Text and Curation: Soma Ghosh
Photography: M. Krishnamurthy and Bahadur Ali
Research Assistance: Dinesh Singh and E. Rajesh
Special thanks to : Ms. Priyanka Mary Francis, IAS, Director, Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad, India.
Dr. G. Kusum, Curator, Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad, India.
References -
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khosrow_and_Shirin (accessed 23.05.2025)
2. https://nazmiyalantiquerugs.com/blog/pictorial-persian-rug-tragic-love-story-of-shirin-and-khosrow/ (accessed 23.05.2025)
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