Manichaeism depictions and Twelve Imam depictions in Safavid Iran

The origins of Shiism is a significant subject of debate. Some argue that different religions and cultures played a crucial role in the emergence and development of Shiism. It is claimed that ancient Iranian culture, along with Christianity, Judaism, and Hinduism, had significant influences on Shiism. Moreover, belief systems such as Zoroastrianism and Manichaeism are also believed to have affected Shiism. Based on the idea that any religious influence would also permeate into the realm of art, this study aims to identify the depictions of Prophet Muhammad and the Twelve Imams during the Safavid period when Twelver Shiism became the state sect. The study seeks to examine whether these depictions exhibit any similarities with Manichean depictions and, consequently, determine if there was any Manichean influence on Shiite depictions during this period. To achieve this goal, the study initially examines the emergence and fundamental beliefs of Shiism and Manichaeism. Subsequently, the religious policies during the Safavid period, which marked the golden age of Twelver Shiism, are investigated. In light of this information, the depictions produced during the Safavid period are evaluated to ascertain whether they bear any resemblance to Manichean Works.