Persian literature has played a significant role in introducing the rich culture of Iran, and Nezami Ganjavi, is one of the most renowned poets and celebrated figures of Persian literature treasure. On March 12th (21st of Esfand) was officially designated as the National Day of Nezami Ganjavi.
On the occasion of National Nezami Day, this valuable manuscript of Nezami’s Khamseh, preserved in Royal Library Museum of Niavaran, is introduced.

Hakim Jamal ed-Din Abu Mohammad Elias ibn Yusof ibn Zaki ibn Mo’id (1123-1217), known as Nezami, the famous 12th century Iranian poet, was born in the city of Ganja. His tomb in Ganja, present-day Azerbaijan Republic, remains a gathering place for enthusiasts of Persian literature.

Nezami’s Khamseh includes: Makhzan ol-Asrar, Leyli and Majnun, Khosrow and Shirin, Haft Paykar (The Seven Bodies), and Iskander Nameh. This valuable work, like Shahnameh, is among the group of Iranian literary masterpieces that have been beautifully illustrated by painters. The artistic taste of Iranian artists has produced magnificent artworks inspired by Nezami’s masterpiece.
Characteristics of the Manuscript:
Calligrapher: Seyyed Ahmad al-Hosseini / 16th century 
Illuminator: Jahangir Bokhari / 16th century 
Illustrators: Mirak Heravi and Mir Seyyed Ali Tabrizi, who depicted various stories from the five episodes of this epic using miniature painting techniques.
Format and Dimensions: Large Vazir-size; 17.5 × 28 cm
Cover Type: Embossed leather with an inner cover featuring a burned and inlaid Toranj (medallion design)
Cover Maker: Molla Qavam ed-Din Mojalled Tabrizi / 16th century