Shah 'Abbas and the Treasures of Imperial Iran - Hardcover

Sheila R. Canby

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0714124559 ISBN 13: 9780714124551

Publisher: British Museum Press, 2009

Synopsis

Shah `Abbas was one of Irans most influential leaders. During his rule (15871629), he left a far-reaching mark on the society and artistic heritage of Iran. He renovated the countrys famous Shii shrines and donated to them priceless works of art including sumptuous carpets, silks, porcelain and albums, many of them illustrated here in glorious detail. This book will look at this mercurial character and his crowning artistic achievement, the new capital at Isfahan: influenced by the many surrounding cultures it seemed to resemble half the world. He was helped in his ambitious attempts to rebuild his empire by an inner circle of great artists and thinkers. His relationship with these courtiers and their lifestyle will be illustrated with contemporary scenes taken from beautiful miniatures and calligraphies by the leading scribes. The book will also include the only known contemporary portraits of Shah `Abbas and likenesses of important figures at his court. Illustrated with stunning images of the opulent treasures that were created under Shah `Abbass rule, many taken from the British Museums Safavid collections, this book will provide a compelling insight into this fascinating period.

About this edition

• Publisher: British Museum Press
• Publication date: 2009
• ISBN 10: 0714124559
• ISBN 13: 9780714124551
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 96