This intricate composition, calligraphed by Muhammad Nuri Siwasi at beginning of the 20th century, is a reproduction of an original piece. It consists of two lines that, from afar, bear the words Allah, Muhammad, Ali, Fatimah, Hassan, and Hussain in nastaliq script. The names are surrounded by an oval frame. However, on closer inspection, the lettering for each name, and the oval cartouche, reveal Surah Ya-Sin in ghubar (dust-like) script.
Surrounding the main text are beautiful golden floral spandrels, extended by borders of a similar theme.
In both Sunni and Shia Muslim traditions, there is an important event referred to in hadith literature that symbolizes the status of the Ahl al-Bayt in their relation to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This is the tradition or episode of al-kisa (the mantle, or cloak) in which the Prophet spread his mantle over Fatima, Ali, and their two sons Hasan and Husayn. This tradition has come down to us in a number of versions, each stressing one or another aspect of the excellence of the family of the Prophet and his love for them.
Ahmad b. Hanbal relates on the authority of Umm Salama, the Prophet"s wife, that he said to Fatima one day:
"Bring me your husband and two sons." When they had all come together he spread over them a mantle, and laying his hand over them, he said: "O God, these are the people of the House of Muhammad! Let therefore your prayers and blessings descend upon Muhammad and the people of the House of Muhammad; for you are worthy of all praise and glory."
