Typology and Analysis of Animal Combat and Hunting Motifs in Qajar Art

Introduction: Animal combat and hunting motifs have been a prominent theme in Iranian-Islamic art and civilization from pre-Islamic times through the Qajar period. Although these motifs have been depicted similarly across various eras, their meanings have evolved in accordance with the sociocultural and religious contexts of each period. Consequently, this study seeks to examine the meanings of animal combat and hunting motifs in Qajar art, with specific attention to their spatial contexts and functional positions within architectural or artistic works. The central research question addressed herein is: What are the origins of animal combat and hunting motifs in Qajar art, considering the nature of the structure and the artistic medium, and how do they differ from similar motifs found in the Seljuk to Safavid periods?Research Method: This study adopts a developmental approach in terms of its objectives and employs a descriptive-analytical method in its execution. Data collection involved both library-based research, utilizing primary and relevant sources, and field studies examining artistic elements such as stucco work, tilework, ceramics, metalwork, wood carving, painting on wood or plaster, seal engravings, and illustrated manuscripts. The study identified 52 examples of animal combat and hunting motifs across a variety of artistic media, classifying them into 14 distinct types.Findings: Among the analyzed examples, tilework motifs (particularly polychrome «haft-rang» or under transparent glaze painting) and stucco (low or high relief) were the most frequently represented media. Beyond the type of structure or artifact, the artistic medium, visual characteristics of the motifs, and the decorative elements surrounding or adjacent to them significantly influenced their symbolic meanings.Conclusion: The findings suggest that the roots of animal combat and hunting motifs lie in a synthesis of earlier beliefs and the popular consciousness of the Qajar era. These motifs symbolically reference the repulsion of evil forces, popular narratives, and prevailing cultural beliefs. In essence, the motifs not only align with public sentiment but also emphasize the legitimacy of the king and his absolute and victorious power in triumphing over falsehood.