Iranian arts encompass a rich heritage, excelling in various forms including architecture, painting, and folk art. Three historical architecture periods—pre-Islamic, post-Islamic, and modern—highlight the evolution influenced by cultural and religious developments, showcasing distinctive styles like Achaemenid and Seljuk architecture. Iranian painting has evolved from ancient miniature styles to modern expressions, while folk art reflects cultural values through intricate craftsmanship in areas like carpet weaving and engraving.

1. exploring
the
iranian
arts
BY GROUP 2

2. what is iranian arts?
-Iranian art or Persian art has one of the richest art
heritages in world history. Iran or Persia of the old
world excels in many forms of art not only in
architecture and painting but also in weaving, pottery,
metalworking, and calligraphy. The age-old art forms
have been deeply embedded in the consciousness of
the people of Iran; thus, until now in the modern
times, Iranian art forms continue to flourish and
grow.

3. WHAT ARE THE ELEMENTS
ANd principle used in the
arts and crafts of iran?
• ARCHITECTURE
• PAINTING

4. architecture
in
Iran

5. Architecture
Iranian architecture is generally divided into
three main historical periods or styles: Pre-
Islamic Architecture, post-Islamic
Architecture, and Modern Architecture.
Each period showcases distinct characteristics
influenced by the culture, religion, and
historical events of the time.

6. architecture
-For a long time the history of Persia, (pre-islamic and
post Islamic), Iranian architecture has topped the
architecture of the acient world.
-Iran's architecture is known for its rich history and
distinctive styles that blend both traditional and modern
elements. The architecture is characterized by intricate
tile work, domed roofs, arches, and courtyards,
reflecting the cultural and religious significance of the
region. Islamic architecture, with its use of geometric
patterns, calligraphy, and vibrant colors, is a major
influence in Iran.

7. Pre-Islamic Iranian
Architecture

8. Pre-Islamic Iranian Architecture
-Pre-Islamic Iranian architecture refers to the
architectural styles developed in ancient Iran
before the rise of Islam. It has Combination of
Graeco-Roman, Egyptian, and Babylonian
construction.
-Pre-Islamic Iranian Architecture is known for its
monumental scale, advanced engineering, and
symbolic designs. Key features include large, open
spaces, intricate brick and stone work, and the use
of domes and arches.

9. the achaemenid architecture
Achaemenid architecture was primarily created under the
direction of Darius I (the first), the third king of the
Achaemenid Empire (550–330 BCE), who reigned from (522-
486 BCE). Achaemenid architecture is known for its
monumental structures that reflected the empire’s power
and cultural diversity. It combines influences from
Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Anatolia, it features massive
stone platforms, grand palaces, hypostyle halls, and
intricate reliefs. The style features expansive halls with tall
columns, animal-shaped capitals, and advanced water
management systems, including irrigation and Persian
gardens.

10. The most famous example of
achaemenid architecture:
the Persepolis
is the
ceremonial
capital of the
Achaemenid
Empire, it is
known for its
monumental
staircases and
ornate reliefs.
Persepolis

11. Parthian architecture (247 BCE–224 CE) developed
during the Parthian Empire and is known for blending
traditional Persian elements with influences from
Hellenistic and Greek architecture. Key features of
Parthian architecture include large, vaulted structures
such as domes and iwans (arched halls), which became
prominent in palaces and public buildings.
The Parthian Architecture

12. Parthian architecture also emphasized the use of
mudbrick and stone, and often featured decorative
elements like frescoes and stucco work. The style is
known for its impressive, monumental gateways,
large columned halls, and the use of vast, open
spaces in palace complexes.
The Parthian Architecture

13. It is believed to have been a place of
worship dedicated to Anahita, the
ancient Persian goddess of water,
fertility, healing, and wisdom. The
temple is one of the most significant
remnants of Parthian and early
Sassanian architecture and reflects a
unique blend of Greek and Persian
styles.
the most famous example of parthian
architecture
Temple of Anahita

14. Palace of hatra
Hatra was a major center of the
Parthian Empire, and its palace is
a remarkable example of
Parthian architecture and urban
planning. The city of Hatra was
known for its strategic location
on trade routes and its ability to
resist Roman invasions, thanks to
its strong fortifications and well-
planned structures.
Another famous example of parthian
architecture is:

15. Sassanid architecture (224–651 BCE) refers to the
architectural style developed during the Sassanid Empire.it
is known for its monumental and innovative designs. It is
characterized by the use of large, vaulted structures,
including domes and barrel vaults, often made from brick.
A main feature of Sassanid architecture is the iwan, a large,
arched hall or porch, which became central to both palaces
and public buildings. The architecture also emphasized
expansive interior spaces, bold symmetry, and intricate
decoration, including stucco work and carvings.
The Sassanid architecture

16. The most famous structure from
this period is the Taq Kasra (Arch
of Ctesiphon), a massive vaulted
hall that remains the largest
single-span brick arch in the
world. Sassanid architecture
influenced later Islamic designs,
particularly in mosques and
palaces. power and architectural
ingenuity.
the most famous Sassanid architecture:
taq kasra

17. Post-Islamic Iranian
Architecture

18. Post-Islamic Iranian Architecture
Post-Islamic architecture of Iran refers to the
architectural developments that emerged after the
Islamic conquest of Persia in (c.200-50 BCE). This
period saw a transformation in architectural styles
as Islamic art and Persian traditions blended,
resulting in some of the most stunning and
influential designs in the Islamic world.

19. Seljuk architecture in Iran (11th–13th century)
marks a pivotal period in the history of Islamic
architecture, characterized by the fusion of
Persian, Turkic, and Islamic influences. Seljuk
architecture focused on brickwork and the four-
iwan mosque layout. Large, elegant mosques with
curved arches became characteristic of this era.
The seljuk Architecture

20. 1. The Great Mosque of Isfahan
(Jameh Mosque of Isfahan):
A masterpiece that reflects the
evolution of Seljuk architectural style,
combining earlier Persian traditions
with Islamic elements. Its structure
includes a large central dome, four
iwans, and stunning tile work. The
mosque’s courtyard and surrounding
arches demonstrate the sophisticated
use of space typical of the Seljuks.
Some of the most famous examples of Seljuk
architecture in Iran include:

21. 2. The Gonbad-e Qabus Tower:
This is a monumental brick tower built
in the early 11th century in the city of
Gorgan. It stands as one of the tallest
brick constructions from the Seljuk
period, with its cylindrical form and
intricate geometric patterns,
showcasing both engineering prowess
and artistic design.
Some of the most famous examples of Seljuk
architecture in Iran include:

22. 3. The Masjid-i Jami of Yazd:
This mosque, dating back to the 12th
century, features a stunning entrance
portal, a grand iwan, and a highly
decorative mihrab. Its use of high-
quality brickwork and tile decoration
reflects the Seljuks' mastery in both
structure and aesthetics.
Some of the most famous examples of Seljuk
architecture in Iran include:

23. Safavid architecture, a prominent style in Iran
from the (16th-18th) centuries, is a captivating
blend of Persian and Islamic traditions. It's
characterized by a vibrant use of colors,
intricate tilework, and mesmerizing geometric
patterns. This style adorned mosques, palaces,
and shrines, showcasing a remarkable level of
artistic expression during this period
the safavid architecture

24. 1. The Sheikh Lotfollah
Mosque in Isfahan
a masterpiece of Safavid
architecture known for its
exquisite tilework and intricate
geometric patterns. It was
built by the chief architect
Mohammadreza Isfahani
Some of the most notable examples of
Safavid architecture include:

25. 2. chehel sotoun
is a Persian pavilion in the
middle of a park at the far
end of a long pool, in
Isfahan, Iran, built by Shah
Abbas II to be used for his
entertainment and
receptions.
Some of the most notable examples of
Safavid architecture include:

26. 3.
The Imam Reza Shrine in
Mashhad
a holy shrine for Shiite Muslims
known for its largest mosque in the
world by area. The complex also
includes the Goharshad Mosque, a
museum, a library, four seminaries, a
cemetery, the Razavi University of
Islamic Sciences, and other buildings.
Some of the most notable examples of
Safavid architecture include:

27. The modern
Architecture

28. Many years later, in the 1920s, Iranian architecture started
to change under the reign of Reza Shah Pahlavi. This era
marked the beginning of modernization, with Western
architectural styles and techniques influencing local
designs. By the 1940s and 1950s, modernist elements like
minimalism, concrete, and steel were integrated into
buildings, while still keeping traditional Persian features
like arches, domes, and courtyards. Over time, this fusion
led to the creation of iconic structures
the Modern architecture

29. some examples of modern
architecture:

30. Tehran University

31. some examples of modern
architecture:
Tehran University
The University of Tehran’s iconic entrance
gate, showcases a fusion of Persian
heritage and modern design. Designed
in 1965 by Iranian architect Korosh
Farzami, the gate features sweeping
concrete curves symbolizing freedom
and intellectual growth. Its minimalist yet
dynamic form reflects modern
construction techniques while subtly
echoing traditional Iranian motifs,
making it a powerful symbol of academic
progress and innovation in Iran.

32. Azadi Tower

33. some examples of modern architecture:
azadi tower
The Azadi Tower in Tehran, Iran, is an iconic monument
built in 1971 to commemorate the 2,500th anniversary
of the Persian Empire. Designed by Hossein Amanat at
just 24 years old, the tower blends Persian and modern
architectural styles, featuring traditional Islamic
geometric patterns and modern design elements.
Standing 45 meters (148 feet) tall and clad in white
marble from Isfahan, it serves as a symbolic gateway
between Tehran's old and new sections. its Originally
named the Shahyad Tower ("King’s Memorial Tower"), it
was renamed the Azadi Tower ("Freedom Tower") after
the 1979 Iranian Revolution, becoming a powerful
symbol of freedom and national pride.

34. Painting
in
Iran

35. 2.painting
-Painting in Iran has a long and
diverse history that reflects the
country's cultural, religious, and
political evolution. Iranian
paintings are popularly called
miniatures. In the pre-Islamic
period, Iranian art was
characterized by rock reliefs,
frescoes, and decorative pottery
designs

36. during the, Achaemenid,
parthian and Sassanian
empires. The Tabriz,
Herat, and Isfahan
schools of painting
developed unique styles,
blending vibrant colors
with detailed
storytelling, often
depicting scenes from
Persian epics and
poetry.
Here is an example of a
Persian miniature
painting:

37. -These artworks often
depicted royal ceremonies,
mythological creatures,
and scenes of daily life.
With the advent of Islam,
Persian miniature painting
became one of the most
celebrated art forms.
Flourishing during the
Ilkhanid, Timurid, and
Safavid dynasties, these
intricate and colorful
illustrations were used to
decorate literary and
historical manuscripts.

38. -During the Qajar period (1789–1925),
Iranian painting shifted to realistic
portraiture influenced by European art while
preserving Persian decorative elements,
often depicting royalty and court life. In the
modern era, artists blended traditional styles
with contemporary techniques to explore
themes like identity, politics, and spirituality.

39. Here are some examples of
Iranian paintings from the
Qajar period:

40. After the 1979 Islamic Revolution, art
became a tool for social and political
expression. Today, Iranian artists
continue to merge historical
influences with modern styles, making
Iranian painting a vibrant and
evolving art form.

41. Folk art
in
Iran

42. 3.FOLK ART
Folk art in Iran is a reflection
of the country’s cultural
heritage, showcasing
traditional craftsmanship
passed down through
generations. It involves
various forms of artistic
expression that highlight the
values, beliefs, and daily life
of the Iranian people, often
characterized by intricate
designs and vibrant
patterns.
There are three
famous Iranian
folk art:
-CARPET
WEAVING
-ENGRAVING
-RELIEF ANd
latticework

43. • Carpet Weaving
-Persian carpets are renowned
for their intricate designs and
high-quality craftsmanship. Each
region in Iran has its own
distinctive style, with motifs that
reflect cultural, spiritual, and
natural themes. The weaving
process itself is meticulous,
often involving the use of
natural dyes and hand-knotting
techniques, making these
carpets highly valued worldwide.

44. • Engraving
-Engraving in Iran is the art of
carving intricate patterns into
materials like metal, wood, and
stone. Known for its fine detail,
it often features floral designs,
calligraphy, and geometric
shapes. This traditional craft has
been used to decorate both
functional and decorative
objects, showcasing the skill of
Iranian artisans.

45. • Relief and Latticework
-Relief and latticework in Iranian
folk art involve creating intricate,
raised designs on surfaces like
wood, metal, or stone. Relief
work adds depth to objects, while
latticework features geometric
patterns, often seen in
architecture and decorative
items. Both styles highlight
Persian craftsmanship and are
used to enhance the beauty of
everyday objects and structures.

46. yun lang,salamat
sa paw-kikinig!!!

47. 1. What are the three main historical
periods of Iranian architecture?
a) Classical, Baroque, Modern
b) Pre-Islamic, Post-Islamic, Modern
c) Ancient, Medieval, Contemporary
d) Persian, Greek, Ottoman

48. 2. What architectural feature was
central to the Sassanid Empire and
influenced later Islamic designs?
a) Flat roofs and square windows
b) Open courtyards with fountains
c) Glass walls and steel frames
d) Iwans (arched halls) and vaulted
structures

49. 3. What is the most famous
architectural masterpiece of the
Achaemenid Empire?
a) Hatra
b) Persepolis
c) Gonbad-e Qabus Tower
d) Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque

50. 4. Which mosque is considered a
masterpiece of Seljuk architecture,
showcasing iwans, domes, and
intricate tilework?
a) Imam Reza Shrine
b) Azadi Tower
c) Great Mosque of Isfahan
d) Taq Kasra

51. 5. What is Persian miniature painting, and
what themes are often depicted in this art
form?
a) Small, colorful illustrations showing
Persian epics and daily life
b) Large outdoor murals focusing on modern
art
c) Abstract designs with geometric patterns
d) Realistic portraits of kings and leaders

52. 6. How did Iranian painting change during the
Qajar period (1789–1925)?
a) It focused on abstract art and symbols.
b) It centered on religious themes exclusively.
c) It abandoned traditional styles for modern
photography.
d) It shifted to realistic portraiture influenced
by European styles.

53. 7. What craft is Iranian carpet weaving
most famous for?
a) Simple, machine-made patterns
b) Hand-knotted designs using natural
dyes and cultural motifs
c) Printing photos onto fabric
d) Modern digital designs

54. 8. In Iranian folk art, what does the
technique of engraving typically involve?
a) Painting landscapes on canvas
b) Sculpting large stone statues
c) Weaving patterns into rugs and carpets
d) Carving intricate patterns into metal,
wood, or stone

55. 9. Which modern architectural
landmark in Tehran blends Persian
heritage with contemporary design
and serves as a symbol of freedom?
a) Azadi Tower
b) Persepolis
c) Taq Kasra
d) Great Mosque of Isfahan

56. 10. What are some common elements of
Iranian folk art, and what do they reflect about
the culture?
a) Simple designs reflecting modern themes
b) Abstract shapes without deeper meaning
c) Intricate patterns showcasing daily life,
beliefs, and nature
d) Focus on futuristic, technology-driven art

57. 1. b
2. d
3. b
4. c
5. A
6. d
7. b
8. d
9. a
10. c