Pezeshkian: Farshchian’s name will remain ‘forever’ in Iran’s cultural history
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared that master painter Mahmoud Farshchian's name will remain "forever" in the nation's cultural history, issuing a tribute after the 95-year-old miniature artist died in the United States.
Pezeshkian's statement positioned the artist's death as a profound cultural loss, emphasizing that Farshchian had breathed "fresh spirit" into Iran's ancient painting traditions while elevating the country's profile on the world stage, IRNA reported.
"Without doubt, the memory and name of Master Farshchian and his brilliant works will remain like a shining jewel in the history of culture and art of this land," the president wrote in his condolence message released through the government information portal.
The president specifically praised three of Farshchian's masterpieces, The Evening of Ashura,’ ‘Kawthar,’ and ‘The Guarantor of the Gazelle’, describing them as mirrors of "love, faith and the glory of Islamic Iranian culture and Shiite history."
Pezeshkian called the Isfahan-born artist's passing a "bitter loss" for Iran's artistic community and cultural enthusiasts nationwide. He extended formal condolences to Farshchian's family while highlighting the painter's role as both guardian and innovator of Persian miniature art.
The presidential tribute underscored Iran's efforts to project cultural soft power through its artistic heritage. Pezeshkian emphasized that Farshchian had not only preserved "the authenticity and glory of Iranian painting" but had also brought international recognition to the country through his "unparalleled innovation and taste."
Farshchian died Saturday after battling pneumonia, according to the Iranian Academy of Arts. The artist had lived in the United States for years while maintaining strong ties to his homeland's cultural institutions.
Pezeshkian called on future generations of artists and students to carry forward Farshchian's "glorious and valuable school" of painting.
Born January 24, 1930, in Isfahan, Farshchian carved out a unique position in modern Iranian art by revitalizing miniature painting for contemporary audiences. His works frequently drew from Islamic narratives and Shiite religious themes, resonating deeply with Iran's cultural identity.