Color Symbolism in Islamic Book Paintings

Evidence

"Red has a dual identity in Islamic tradition. It is used to symbolize the life cycle, with love and desire on one side, and war and violence on another."

Remarks

Red possesses a dual symbolic identity, representing love, seduction, and desire, alongside war, blood, and courage. In the red pavilion tale (Figures 4.13-14) and Bahram Gur’s hunting scene (Figure 4.15), the color reflects energy and strength (p. 67, 68). In Figure 5.1, both Majnun and Layla are depicted in red garments, which in this context signifies the powerful emotions and temptation of love (p. 78, 79).