The Committee
- Takes note that Afghanistan has nominated Behzad’s style of miniature art (No. 02267) for inscription on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity:
Miniature art is a detailed and symbolic form of painting scenes from history and literature. Its primary function is to acquaint the communities concerned with elements of culture, history and literature, embodying the knowledge and insight of their collective past. Certain artists have contributed to its recognition and popularity, with their works now adorning world-renowned museums. For instance, numerous artists and schools are inspired by the design and style of Kamal ud-Din Behzad’s work and use it as their primary model.
- Considers that, from the information included in the file, the nomination satisfies the following criterion for inscription on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity:
R.5: The element was included in the Afghanistan Intangible Cultural Heritage National Inventory List in 2021. This list was developed in 2010 and last updated in 2021 with the participation of local communities, groups and individuals, and in close cooperation with public and non-governmental organizations.
- Further considers that, from the information included in the file and the information provided by the submitting State Party through the dialogue process, the nomination satisfies the following criteria for inscription on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity:
R.1: As a means of telling stories and conveying meaning, the art form is not only seen in paintings but also reflected in architecture, such as minarets and historic buildings. It is a vibrant cultural expression that continues to be practised, recognized, and transmitted by several individuals, communities and institutions. The art provides a sense of identity and continuity, helping to preserve the cultural fabric of the Afghan people while contributing to social cohesion and mutual respect. It is transmitted both formally and informally, with many students choosing to study miniature painting every year, which helps to keep the tradition alive. Miniature art connects people with their past, heritage and values. A means of passing on knowledge and values from one generation to the next, it is a living tradition that preserves culture and inspires learning. As such, it helps the communities reflect on their shared history and contributes to fostering a sense of community identity and pride.
R.2: The nomination file asserts the potential for Behzad’s style miniature art to contribute to ensuring the visibility and awareness of the significance of intangible cultural heritage and encouraging dialogue. Its inscription could protect the art from social, religious and political threats. It could also promote economic growth, improve the quality of education and promote gender equality and equal rights by encouraging governments and international communities to make a concrete commitment to their conservation.
R.3: Given the adverse conditions faced by the country during decades of war, a number of safeguarding measures have been put in place to promote, protect and safeguard the element. The safeguarding measures proposed include introducing art courses, organizing continuous art exhibitions, constructing art galleries, embellishing government palaces with the miniature art and publishing books and articles dedicated to the art. Adequate information is provided on the role of the communities in the planning and implementation of these safeguarding measures.
R.4: The submitting State Party has demonstrated the community’s participation in the nomination process and provided detailed information for each community concerned both in the nomination file and in the attached documents. The file also highlights the important roles played, in the present day, by influential individuals and historians who tirelessly advocate for Behzad-style miniature art alongside universities and scientific and research institutions.
- Decides to inscribe Behzad’s style of miniature art on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity;
- Commends the State Party for the submission of an improved file following the decision of the Committee to refer the file in 2022.