Shah 'Abbas

Shah 'Abbas, the Safavid ruler who unified a fragmented, fractious Iran at the turn of the sixteenth century, understood that a renovation of culture was essential for his political aims. He reinvented the ancient city of Isfahan as the new capital of his rule and rolled out a massive programme of cultural works, represented here by items quite as remarkable, delicate and sophisticated as one might expect. Incredible carpets, interwoven with threads of silver, are complemented by exquisite calligraphy and metalwork; an openwork 'alam (a religious standard brought out on holy days) is a particular treat, as are several beautifully painted scenes of dervishes and pilgrims. (FG)