Technologies of the Image: Art in 19th-Century Iran

Uncover the captivating world of 19th-century Iranian art with "Technologies of the Image: Art in 19th-Century Iran," a groundbreaking exploration of the Qajar era (17791925). This stunning hardcover publication, authored by leading experts including David J. Roxburgh, Mary McWilliams, Farshid Emami, and Mira Xenia Schwerda, challenges conventional understandings of Qajar art and its significance in the broader context of Islamic and Iranian artistic traditions. For too long, the diverse and beautiful art of the Qajar dynasty has been overlooked. "Technologies of the Image" rectifies this, offering a comprehensive reassessment of the period's artistic output. The book delves into the four principal mediums that defined Qajar art: the exquisite artistry of lacquerware, the intricate beauty of painting and drawing on paper, the innovative techniques of lithography, and the burgeoning field of photography. It expertly traces the intertwined development of these mediums, revealing how they influenced and enriched one another. The Qajar era was a time of profound cultural and technological transformation in Iran. The influx of mass-produced items from Europe, Russia, and India had a dramatic impact on the art world. This book meticulously explores how Iranian artists responded to these changes, incorporating new technologies and adapting foreign influences while simultaneously preserving and reimagining traditional artistic practices. Witness how artists skillfully integrated printed and photographic images into their paintings and lacquerware, blurring the lines between different mediums and creating entirely new forms of artistic expression. "Technologies of the Image" showcases a wealth of stunning Qajar artworks, many of which are rarely seen. Explore a selection of sketches and designs from Harvards remarkable album of artists drawings, offering a glimpse into the creative process behind these masterpieces. Discover the pioneering photographic work of Ali Khan Vali, capturing the essence of Qajar society and culture. Admire the breathtaking beauty of Persian lacquerware from prestigious private collections, showcasing the unparalleled skill and artistry of Qajar artisans. This meticulously researched volume goes beyond simply presenting beautiful objects; it seeks to understand Qajar art as a product of a rapidly evolving art world. It investigates how images traversed and connected different media, highlighting the diverse contexts of production and patronage, ranging from the royal court to sub-royal circles. The book sheds light on the complex social, political, and economic factors that shaped the artistic landscape of Qajar Iran. "Technologies of the Image" is more than just a catalog of an exhibition; it's a scholarly and visually stunning journey into a fascinating and often misunderstood period of Iranian art history. Its publication coincided with a major exhibition at the Harvard Art Museums (August 26, 2017 January 7, 2018), and the book serves as a lasting testament to the richness and complexity of Qajar artistic achievements. With 192 pages and featuring numerous illustrations, this book, published by Harvard Art Museums, is an essential resource for scholars, collectors, and anyone with an interest in Islamic art, Iranian art, and the history of photography. The authors, David J. Roxburgh is Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Professor of Islamic Art History at Harvard University. Mary McWilliams is Norma Jean Calderwood Curator of Islamic and Later Indian Art at the Harvard Art Museums. Farshid Emami is Assistant Professor of Art History at the Rhode Island School of Design. Mira Xenia Schwerda is an art historian specializing in the arts of the Islamic world and Iran. The ISBN numbers are ISBN-13: 9780300229196 and ISBN-10: 0300229194. Add this significant contribution to your art history library today!