Fashioning an Empire: Textiles from Safavid Iran

The exhibition highlights the critical role that silk played during the Safavid period (1501-1736 CE) in Iran. It is organised into sections: establishment of the silk monopoly and state-funded manufacturing; exploration of the production and technical components of textiles; the rise of Isfahan as the imperial capital; fashion and trends in Safavid society; and lastly, contemporary commissions created by local designers inspired by Safavid textiles.

Fashioning an Empire was conceived and first presented at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art, Washington, DC from December 2021 to May 2022.

MIA will host various activities in December, including workshops related to the Fashioning an Empire: Textiles from Safavid Iran exhibition, their monthly storytime session, and a family day to mark Qatar National Day. In addition, MIA Library has opened its rare book room displaying highlights of Palestine’s history.

Below are the upcoming events that might hit your interest

• Fashioning an Empire – Podcast Available to stream here

What was the style and fashion of Safavid Iran like? How did this empire cultivate power and influence? Join MIA for a deep dive into Safavid silks through tales of textiles and fashion. This audio series is part of the Museum of Islamic Art exhibit, ‘Fashioning an Empire: Textiles from Safavid Iran’.

• Palestine: A Journey Through Time Display until 31 January 2024

As a heartfelt tribute to the enduring essence of Palestine and its people, MIA Library opens the doors of the rare book room to present a rare collection of books displaying special highlights of Palestine’s history. In the library majlis, visitors can read books about Palestine and write notes to hang on our ‘Support Palestine’ Library Tree. This small open display comes as a way of support to the current situation in Palestine, and as an open comfortable space for the public to glance at the history and beauty of Palestine.

• Carpets from Isfahan – Drop-In Session 1 December | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Families are invited to a drop-in session in the MIA Atrium. Participants take inspiration from the Fashioning an Empire exhibition to create their own carpet from Isfahan, using geometrical shapes and colours.

• Family Day – Post Cards 16 December | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

In honour of Qatar National Day, MIA invites the public to join them for a Family Day in the Atrium and create your own postcards inspired by MIA’s rich collection.

• Planet Kids Club – Qitt The Sand Cat 26 December | 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM

The workshop is taught in English and Arabic and is limited to 30 spaces. For booking and enquiries, email [email protected].