The world of art and literature has always been a source of inspiration for each other, creating a fusion of creativity that has delighted audiences for centuries. In this vein Sergo Tbileli began working on his innovative painting series, inspired by the Georgian epic “Knight in the Panther’s Skin” (Vepkhistkaosani). Using his experimental use of screen printing, Tbileli has created a concept for a new Series. In 2021 he presented the first volume of the Series on his exhibition “Anabechdi,” which is centered around the monumental poem and its characters.

In this ongoing series, Tbileli has reimagined the world of Rustaveli’s epic, introducing new perspectives and visually bringing to life the characters from the poem. The first exhibition of the series focused on the first arc of the poem, which describes a great hunt and introduces readers to the world and the two main characters. Tbileli has continued restlessly working on this series stating that this is just the beginning, and the series will be split into five parts and span over a few years.
As viewer embarks on this visual journey through Rustaveli’s imaginative world, you will witness the stunning illustrations of Tbileli, which bring to life the unforgettable characters and scenes from the epic. Through these images, you will gain a fresh and evocative perspective on this enduring literary masterpiece.
The series’ beauty lies not only in the breathtaking artistry of Tbileli but also in the unique insights into the rich narrative and thematic tapestry of the epic. As we progress through the series, we will delve deeper into the characters, settings, and events that form the backbone of Rustaveli’s narrative. Tbileli’s artistry elevates and transforms our experience of the epic, enhancing our understanding of the story and immersing us in the vibrant world of medieval Georgia.

In this introduction to the series, we provide an overview of the historical and cultural context in which “Knight in the Panther’s Skin” was born, setting the stage for our appreciation of Tbileli’s interpretation. We examine the societal values and beliefs that permeate the epic’s fabric and discuss how they resonate in the visual language of Tbileli’s art.
Through this remarkable artistic endeavor, we are granted the opportunity to experience Rustaveli’s epic anew, deepening our appreciation for the timeless human values that underpin this extraordinary literary work. We invite you to immerse yourself in Sergo Tbileli’s mesmerizing illustrated series and explore the world of “Knight in the Panther’s Skin” through fresh eyes.
About Poem
Shota Rustaveli’s epic poem, The Knight in the Panther’s Skin, is a treasured literary work that dates back to the twelfth century, and is widely regarded as one of the definitive poems of Georgia’s Golden Age. The poem follows the quest of two friends, Avtandil and Tariel, as they seek to find Nestan-Darejan, an allegorical embodiment of the famed Georgian Queen Tamar, known for her beauty and intelligence. Rustaveli, who possibly served as the Queen’s treasurer, weaves a tale of chivalry, love, and adventure, against the backdrop of medieval Georgia’s heroic culture.
The Knight in the Panther’s Skin provides readers with a fascinating window into Georgian society, culture, and values during its Golden Age. It is a work of such significance that it was once considered an essential part of a bride’s dowry and is still found in every Georgian home. Rustaveli’s masterful storytelling, with its echoes of the chivalric romances that were popular in Europe’s noble courts during the medieval and early modern periods, has ensured that The Knight in the Panther’s Skin remains a beloved work of literature to this day.