Persian Cultures of Power and the Entanglement of the Afro-Eurasian World

The Achaemenid Empire (550–330 BCE) established Persian institutions of kingship as the model for legitimacy, authority, and prestige across Afro-Eurasia. Iranian visual and political cultures connected an ever-wider swath of Afro-Eurasia, exerting influence at key historical junctures. This book explores the role of Persian cultures in articulating power between the sixth century BCE and the nineteenth century CE, examining royal cosmologies, fashion, banqueting, manuscript cultures, sacred landscapes, and inscriptions. It shows how Perso-Iranian cultures offered neighbors and competitors raw material with which to formulate their own imperial aspirations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 02 January 2024
Publisher: Getty Trust Publications

The Achaemenid Empire, which flourished from 550 to 330 BCE, established Persian institutions of kingship as the epitome of legitimacy, authority, and prestige across three continents. Despite significant upheavals, Iranian visual and political cultures forged a profound connection with Afro-Eurasia, exerting influence at crucial historical junctures over the next two millennia. This groundbreaking book offers the first critical examination of the significant role played by Persian cultures in shaping the diverse expressions of power across Afro-Eurasia between the sixth century BCE and the nineteenth century CE.

The volumes essays delve into various aspects, including royal cosmologies, fashion, banqueting, manuscript cultures, sacred landscapes, and inscriptions. They analyze the intellectual and political exchanges of art, architecture, ritual, and luxury material within and beyond the Persian world. By examining these topics, the essays shed light on how Perso-Iranian cultures provided neighboring nations and rivals with valuable resources for formulating their own imperial aspirations.

What sets this volume apart from studies of Persia and Iran is its focus on exploring issues of change, renovation, and interconnectedness within these cultures over a long period. The authors examine how Perso-Iranian societies adapted and evolved, responding to internal and external pressures while maintaining their distinctive identities. They highlight the interconnectedness of these cultures, with trade, migration, and cultural exchange playing a vital role in shaping their development.

Through its comprehensive analysis, this book provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the complex and multifaceted relationship between Persia, Iran, and Afro-Eurasia. It sheds light on the ways in which Persian cultures influenced and were influenced by their neighbors, contributing to the rich tapestry of global history. It is a must-read for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the intersections of power, culture, and history.

Weight: 872g
Dimension: 179 x 257 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781606068427