Islamic Art Study Notes
Islamic Art Overview
1. The Shrine of Ahmad Yasavi
Location: Turkestan City, Kazakhstan
Date: 1389-1405
Period: Timurid Empire
Significance: This shrine is an important monument reflecting the architectural advancements and spiritual significance during the Timurid period.
2. Kamal al-Din Bihzad - "The Seduction of Yusuf"
Artist: Kamal al-Din Bihzad
Details: Folio from the manuscript of the Bustan of Sa'di
Copied by: Sultan 'Ali Masshadi
Date: 1488
Period: Timurid Empire
Location: Herat, Afghanistan
Medium: Opaque pigment and gold on paper
Dimensions: 12 x 8.5 inches
Collection: General Egyptian Book Organization, Cairo, Egypt
Description: A vivid example of Persian miniature art that emphasizes dramatic storytelling and emotional expression.
3. Sultan Muhammad - "The Court of Gayumars"
Artist: Sultan Muhammad
Details: Folio 20v from the Shahnama of Shah Tahmasp
Date: circa 1522-1535
Period: Safavid Empire
Location: Tabriz, Iran
Medium: Opaque watercolor, ink, gold, and silver on paper
Dimensions: 17 3/4 x 11 7/8 inches
Collection: The Aga Khan Museum, Toronto, Canada
Description: This work exemplifies the use of color and composition characteristic of Safavid art, combining narrative with intricate detail.
4. The Ardabil Carpet
Date: 1539-40
Period: Safavid Empire
Medium: Wool knotted pile on silk foundation
Dimensions: 17 ft 4 5/8 in x 33 ft 10 5/8 in
Collection: Victoria and Albert Museum, London
Significance: Known for its intricate design and large size, the Ardabil Carpet represents the pinnacle of carpet weaving in the Safavid period.
5. Shaykh Lutfallah Mosque
Date: 1603-19
Period: Safavid Empire
Location: Isfahan, Iran
Description: A masterpiece of Islamic architecture, known for its intricate tile work and stunning dome.
6. 'Ali Qapu
Description: 'Ali Qapu Palace features a second-story veranda overlooking the maydan (public square).
Date: Early seventh century
Period: Safavid Empire
Location: Isfahan, Iran
Significance: The architectural design exemplifies the grandeur typical of the Safavid architecture.
7. Tiza-yi 'Abbasi - Youth Reading
Date: circa 1625
Period: Safavid Empire
Location: Isfahan, Iran
Medium: Opaque watercolor, gold and ink on paper page
Collection: British Museum, London
Description: Illustrates the intellectual culture of the Safavid period, highlighting themes of education and scholarly pursuits.
8. Hajji Muhammad - Pen Box
Details: Painted and lacquered papier-mâché pen box
Date: 1712-13
Period: Safavid Empire
Description: Reflects the artistry in everyday objects during this period, representing craftsmanship and decorative arts.
9. Illuminated Tughra of Suleyman I
Date: 1555-60
Period: Ottoman Empire
Location: Istanbul, Turkey
Medium: Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper
Significance: The tughra is a signature emblem that signifies the authority of the sultan, showcasing intricate design and calligraphy.
10. Mosque of Selim II
Date: 1568-75
Period: Ottoman Empire
Location: Edirne, Turkey
Description: Notable for its architectural innovation and the grandeur of its dome, influenced by Hagia Sophia.
Interior: Features elaborate tile work and intricate calligraphic inscriptions.
11. Iznikware Plate
Date: Second half of the sixteenth century
Period: Ottoman Empire
Location: Iznik, Turkey
Medium: Under-glaze painted fritware
Dimensions: 13 3/8 inches in diameter
Collection: Los Angeles County Museum of Art, California
Description: A key example of the decorative pottery of the Ottoman period, characterized by its vibrant colors and floral designs.
12. Abdulcelil Levni - "Spectacular Show on the Golden Horn"
Artist: Abdulcelil Levni
Details: Double-page folios from the manuscript Surnama-i Vehbi
Date: circa 1720-1729/30
Period: Ottoman Empire
Location: Istanbul, Turkey
Collection: Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul
Description: This work displays the cultural and social life in the Ottoman Empire, showcasing vibrant illustrations and details of public festivities.