Biblical Themes, Muslim Artists

Dr. Jack Renard, Professor of Theological Studies, Saint Louis University

Illustrated versions of a wide variety of texts created by and for Muslims of Medieval and early modern times include scores of images of scene with Biblical resonances.  These works rance 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 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.