The Marriage of 'Ali and FatimaThe Marriage of 'Ali and Fatima

Unknown artist

ca. 1850

Opaque watercolour, ink, and gold on paper

Aga Khan Museum

This painting depicts the marriage of 'Ali and Fatima, with Muhammad at the center, surrounded by angels. Further Reading ‘Ali, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad, and Fatima, a daughter of the Prophet to whom ‘Ali was married, are among the most highly venerated of the Muslim figures, revered for their unwavering faith and role in spreading the belief to new devotees. They, along with their sons, Hasan and Husayn, are known as the ahl al-bayt , "the people of the house [of the Prophet]," and hold a particular place of distinction for Shi‘i Muslims, who believe that authority over the community properly descends among Muhammad’s heirs through ‘Ali.[2] This painting, with its image of Muhammad at the centre cl