Biblical Themes, Muslim Artists

Illustrated versions of a wide variety of texts created by and for Muslims of Medieval and Early Modern times include scores of images of scenes with Biblical resonances. These works range from “Universal Histories” to “Tales of the Prophets” to intriguing sectarian works like the “Falname,” and even royal picture albums unattached to text. This rich record of Muslim artistic renderings of themes mutually interesting to Muslims, Christians, and (in many instances) Jews, offers a window into both cultural tastes and “visual exegesis” as painters working for Muslim patrons reveals unique perspectives on their subjects. Examples come from across the full breadth of the “Persianate Realm,” from Turkey through the Central Middle East, across Iran and as far east as Delhi.

Prof. G. John Renard is the Professor of Medieval Islam at Saint Louis University.

Refreshments will be served.

This talk is sponsored by The Art History and Archaeology Department; The Jewish, Islamic, and Near Eastern Languages and Cultures Department; and The Religious Studies Program.