Splendors of the Ancient Persia by Henri Stierlin offers a breathtaking visual and historical panorama of Persian art from the 4th millennium BC until the rise of Islam around AD 650. This definitive volume surveys four thousand years of cultural evolution, ranging from the recently discovered prehistoric civilizations of Jiroft to the monumental architectural achievements of the Achaemenid Empire.
Stierlin provides a fresh perspective by examining the intricate exchange of ideas between diverse cultures, including the influences of Mesopotamia, Anatolia, and the Hellenistic world. Through striking colour photography and expert analysis, the reader is guided through the gold treasures of Marlik, the majestic palaces of Persepolis, and the expressive rock reliefs of the Sassanian dynasty. By tracing the connections between these ancient artistic traditions and their broader historical context, the author presents a compelling narrative of a world once considered a "poor relation" in archaeological circles, now revealed in all its sophisticated glory. This work is an essential resource for those captivated by the art, architecture, and enduring legacy of the ancient Middle East.
Used (good, see images, ex library) Hardcover ISBN 9788854401464
