The Art and Material Culture of Iranian Shi’ism

Download or read book The Art and Material Culture of Iranian Shi’ism written by Pedram Khosronejad and published by Bloomsbury Publishing. This book was released on 2011-11-30 with total page 304 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Shi'i Islam has been the official religion of Iran from the Safavids (1501-1732) to the present day. The Shi'i world experience has provided a rich artistic tradition, encompassing painting, sculpture and the production of artefacts and performance, which has helped to embed Shi'i identity in Iran as part of its national narrative. In what areas of material culture has Iranian Shi'ism manifested itself through objects or buildings that are unique within the overall culture of Islam? To what extent is the art and architecture of Iran from the Safavid period onwards identifiably Shi'i? What does this say about the relationship of nation, state and faith in Iran? Here, leading experts trace the material heritage of Iranian Shi'ism within each of its political, religious and cultural dimensions.