However, alongside him, the second most important figure in the history of Eastern miniature is the renowned Herat master Kamal ad-Din Behzad. Behzad's work, which dates from the last quarter of the 15th to the first quarter of the 16th century, left an indelible mark on art history. His name became one of the few widely known beyond his era.
Behzad inspired admiration from both his contemporaries and later generations. His talent was celebrated by prominent figures such as historian Khondamir, calligrapher and artist Dust Muhammad, and Mirza Haidar — historian and warrior. The founder of the Mughal Empire, Babur, and other art connoisseurs also mentioned Behzad in their writings. This unique artist became a symbol of Eastern miniature and an inspiration for many generations of artists.
You can learn more about the topic in the book-album "The legacy of Kamal ud-din Behzad in the World Collections" (L volume) in the series "The Cultural Legacy of Uzbekistan".
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Mani and Behzad: Masters of Eastern Miniature Art
In Islamic tradition, Mani is revered as the founder of painting, an unparalleled artist of his time. His famous work “Arzhang” is considered one of the greatest artistic achievements of antiquity. Mani's influence on Eastern miniature art was so significant that artists and connoisseurs of Eastern painting regarded him as the foremost master for centuries.