Islamic Art

c. 650–present

Islamic art spans a vast geographic area and long historical period. It is unified by shared visual principles such as calligraphy, geometric pattern, and arabesque design. Art often served religious, civic, and decorative functions. Local styles adapted these principles to regional cultures and materials.

Portrait of Shah Jahan as a Prince

Nadir Al Zaman (Abu’l Hasan)

1617

A detailed miniature emphasizing elegance and royal authority.

Umar Walks around Fulad Castle…

Keshav Das

c. 1590

A colorful painting from Indian court art, showing a hero’s encounter in a fortress.

The Spy Zambur Brings Mahiya to the City of Tawariq

Keshav Das

c. 1590

A Rajput miniature illustrating an episode from an epic poem.

Ardabil Carpet (duplicate)

Maqsud of Kashan

1539–1540

Same masterpiece Persian carpet, one of the finest surviving Islamic textiles.

Rustam Sleeping while Rakhesh Fights the Lion

Artist Unknown

1514

Another version of the Persian story of Rustam’s heroic horse saving him from danger.