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Safavid Dynasty. (1502–1736) Persian dynasty. It was founded by Isma'il I, who, by converting his people from Sunnite to Shi'ite Islam and adopting the trappings of Persian monarchy, planted the seeds of a unique national and religious identity. He captured Tabriz from the Ak Koyunlu and became shah of Azerbaijan (1501) and Persia (1502). 'Abbas I (r. 1588–1629) brought the dynasty to its peak; his capital, Isfahan, was the center of Safavid architectural achievement. The dynasty declined in the century following his reign, pressed by the Ottoman Empire and the Mogul dynasty, and fell when a weak shah, Tahmasp II, was deposed by his general, Nadir Shah. During this period, the art of painting continued to flourish, with single-page paintings and drawings becoming more popular than manuscript illustration. Artistic and architectural developments under Shah Abbas continued into the early seventeenth century. Description: Painted in gilt and gouache of a Persian manuscript leaf of SHAH NAMEH, book of the kings, with inscription, poem by the poet Ferdoussi, and an illustration of Rostam, mythical hero, dueling the Villain. Size: 7"H x 4.5"W, housed in a 12.5" x 15.5" frame. Condition Report: The page is in good condition.
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