Intangible Cultural Heritage
Art of miniature
The miniature is a type of twodimensional artwork that involves the design and creation of small paintings on books papiermâché rugs textiles walls ceramics and other items using raw materials such as gold silver and various organic substances Historically the miniature was exemplified by book painting in which the text was supported visually but the element has evolved and can also be observed in architecture and as an adornment in public spaces The patterns of the miniature represent beliefs worldviews and lifestyles in a pictorial fashion and also gained a new character through the Islamic influence While there are stylistic differences between them the art of miniature as practised by the submitting States Parties shares crucial features In all cases it is a traditional craft typically transmitted through mentorapprentice relationships nonformal education and considered as an integral part of each societys social and cultural identity The miniature displays a specific type of perspective in which the size of the figures changes according to their importance a key difference from realistic and naturalistic styles Though it has existed for centuries it continues to develop and thus strengthens the bonds between past and present Traditional painting principles and techniques are preserved but artists also bring individual creativity into the process
Iran (Islamic Republic of), Uzbekistan, Türkiye, Azerbaijan