The Origins of the Judicial Position and the Position of Judges in the Timurid Khorasan Line and its Reflection on Painting

Historical sources or letters have been tools of administration of court affairs in the history of Iran. Recognizing the text of these works is a significant step in acknowledging the mysteries of the ancient administrative structure. One of the imperative pillars of the administrative structure in Iranian society in the Islamic period was the judiciary system. The establishment of justice is one of the most vital Islamic principles in the Muslim community and the kings, as the representatives of God's justice on earth, considered themselves responsible for the institution of justice; hence, this act became conceivable through religious positions, specifically through judging. This article examines the documents of appointment of judges in the Timurid period in Greater Khorasan via a descriptive and analytical method and relying on archival and library data. Findings show that according to the remaining documents and sources, the judges beheld a vast range of authorities in terms of Sharia and local customs in the society and according to the principals of judge selection, they were renowned for their direct relation with the people and courtiers in terms of a governmental and religious outlooks. A number of these judges, while supporting artists, were considered great poets, artists and writers of the Timurid period. Analysis of existing historical drawings emphasizes the importance of this position.

1. An analysis of the state of justice in the Timurid period. 2. A investigation on the role of origins in analyzing the position of judges and its reflection in painting.

Research questions:

 1. What was the situation of the Iranian judicial system in Timurid? 2. What is the role of sources in the powers of Timurid judges and the recognition of their duties?