Birth of the Prophet Muhammad

The scene is set within a domed architectural space with red pillars. In the center, a large, winged angel sits on the floor, cradling the infant Muhammad, who is wrapped in a pale cloth. Amina, the mother, reclines on a patterned mattress to the right, assisted by three women in veils. To the left, an older man with a grey beard, likely Abd al-Muttalib, stands leaning on a cane, accompanied by three standing women. On the far right, another elderly man sits on a stool, leaning on a tall staff. The composition utilizes vibrant reds and blues, characteristic of Ilkhanid manuscript illumination, with stylized drapery and expressive facial features.

This illumination is from the 'Jami' al-tawarikh' (Compendium of Chronicles) by Rashid al-Din Hamadani, a monumental historical text commissioned by the Ilkhanid Mongols. It reflects the integration of Islamic hagiography with the sophisticated Persian miniature tradition of the early 14th century.