Renowned Iranian artist Hassan Ruholamin has unveiled a new Ashura-themed painting titled “Iron and Moonlight,” which portrays the martyrdom of Hazrat Abbas (AS), brother of Imam Hussein (AS) and the standard-bearer during the Battle of Ashura in 680 CE. The unveiling took place on Wednesday in Karbala, coinciding with the eve of Tasua, a significant day of mourning in the Islamic calendar.

The large-scale oil-on-canvas piece, measuring 270 by 380 centimeters, is dedicated to the memory of Hazrat Umm al-Banin (SA), mother of Hazrat Abbas (AS). Abbas, son of Imam Ali (AS), is remembered as a symbol of loyalty, courage, and selfless devotion. His martyrdom during the battle, notably his attempt to bring water to the thirsty children of Imam Hussein’s camp, represents one of the most poignant episodes of Ashura. Despite immense suffering, Abbas is said to have refused to drink water himself, ultimately losing both his arms and his life protecting the water skin amid the fighting.

“Iron and Moonlight” continues Ruholamin’s tradition of creating artworks devoted to Imam Hussein (AS) and his companions. Over the years, the artist has developed a significant collection centered on early Islamic history and the events of Ashura, reflecting his deep engagement with themes of sacrifice and faith.

Among his notable works is “Daddy,” a 110 by 130-centimeter oil painting depicting Imam Hussein’s final embrace of his three-year-old daughter Roqayyeh (SA) before entering battle. The painting shows the Imam holding Roqayyeh with his horse, Zuljinah, and enemy forces in the background.

Other pieces in Ruholamin’s Ashura collection include “The Sky Fell Down,” which portrays the last moments of Imam Hussein (AS) on the battlefield, severely wounded yet valiantly confronting enemy forces. This painting was completed over nine months and unveiled at the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art in 2018.

Additional works such as “Monastery of the Monk” depict historical scenes following Ashura, including the encounter between a monk and Khawli ibn Yazid al-Asbahi, who was transporting Imam Hussein’s head to the Umayyad caliph Yazid ibn Muawiya. Ruholamin has also created “The Bravery of Hussein,” a digital painting illustrating the intense battle between Imam Hussein (AS) and Yazid’s forces on the day of Ashura in 680 CE.

Ruholamin’s portfolio reflects an ongoing effort to intertwine historical events with modern sensibilities, using his artwork to honor key moments in Islamic history and to engage viewers in reflection on themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and spiritual devotion.