Islamic Art

   How cultures change and adapt their artistic styles over time is always interesting to see, since it also shows the effects of different historical events. During the time of the Mongol invasions and when they had control over vast amounts of land, Islamic art showed that more eastern influence. In one illustrated manuscript, the pictures show ancient Iranian kings dressed in the contemporary Mongolian style and looking like the Mongol leaders of the day. The story was the same, but the way the people were portrayed changed because that was who was leading the nation at that time and who was in control. They’re not necessarily supposed to represent how those ancient kings actually looked or dressed, they’re just a reflection of the times. Artists would probably want to please their current leader so that probably pushed their efforts to combine Mongolian elements in their own artwork. Plus, over the years of living with other people from different places, it’s inevitable that different styles would emerge from having two different cultures in such proximity with each other.

            Bowls and chalices made with gold and silver were regarded highly by the Mongolians as well—kind of moving the other way from Islamic culture being affected by the Mongols. Everyone can see something they like form other cultures and peoples, so that is incorporated into the existing styles. It ends up being a nice mix of multiple customs and cultures.