Color Symbolism in Islamic Book Paintings

Evidence

"Figures 4.16, 4.18 and 4.20 portray the pavilions in a turquoise hue"

Remarks

Turquoise, or 'firuz', is distinguished from darker blue and is perceived as a good omen representing victory ('hajar al-ghalaba') and the ability to surpass hardship. It was historically claimed by scholars like al-Tifashi to be a color worn by Persian kings to deflect danger (p. 69, 70). Figures 4.16, 4.18, and 4.20 specifically depict the pavilions in this turquoise shade (p. 70).