Shah Abbas (1571-1629) was shah of Iran from 1588 (when he assumed power by deposing his father, whom he later murdered) until his death in 1629. He is of critical importance in the history of Iran, restoring the power of the Safavids through war and the strategic negotiation of peace. He is still acclaimed for his strong and decisive rule and the architectural achievements of his reign although he is also recognised as a tyrant, whose paranoia (probably justified) caused him to imprison and assassinate many of his own relatives including his own son, ultimately leaving the throne to his grandson.Remarkably, this is the first biography of Shah Abbas in English. "On a Persian Throne" combines rigorous scholarship with a popular style to produce the definitive, accessible and objective biography of this seminal figure in Iranian history.

An Iranian scholar chronicles the life and legacy of the last Shah of Iran, including his role in the creation of the modern Islamic republic.

This illustrated book gives a unique introduction to the world of Shah 'Abbas and the beautiful mosque and shrines that he created and adorned in the so-called golden age of Persian art.

SHAH ʻABBAS (1571–1629) is the most well-known king of Iran’s Safavid dynasty (1501–1722), ruling at the height of its power and prestige. When Shah ‘Abbas came to power his country was in chaos. Yet within eleven years he had regained territory lost to his enemies, moved his capital city and begun a transformation of Iranian society. Few aspects of life were unaffected by his policies and the new capital he built, the spectacular Isfahan, is still referred to as nisf-i jahan, or “half the world”, by Iranians today. In this wide-ranging profile, Sholeh A. Quinn explores Shah ʻAbbas’s rise to power and his subsequent interactions with religious movements and artistic developments, reaching beyond the historical narrative to assess the true impact of the man and his politics. Thought provoking and comprehensive, this account is ideal for readers interested in uncovering the life and thoughts of a man who ruled during a period described by many as a golden age for the arts in Iran.

Shah Abbas (1571-1629) was shah of Iran from 1588 (when he assumed power by deposing his father, whom he later murdered) until his death in 1629. He is of critical importance in the history of Iran, restoring the power of the Safavids through war and the strategic negotiation of peace. He is still acclaimed for his strong and decisive rule and the architectural achievements of his reign although he is also recognised as a tyrant, whose paranoia (probably justified) caused him to imprison and assassinate many of his own relatives including his own son, ultimately leaving the throne to his grandson.Remarkably, this is the first biography of Shah Abbas in English. "On a Persian Throne" combines rigorous scholarship with a popular style to produce the definitive, accessible and objective biography of this seminal figure in Iranian history.

Shah `Abbas was one of Irans most influential leaders. During his rule (15871629), he left a far-reaching mark on the society and artistic heritage of Iran. He renovated the countrys famous Shii shrines and donated to them priceless works of art including sumptuous carpets, silks, porcelain and albums, many of them illustrated here in glorious detail. This book will look at this mercurial character and his crowning artistic achievement, the new capital at Isfahan: influenced by the many surrounding cultures it seemed to resemble half the world. He was helped in his ambitious attempts to rebuild his empire by an inner circle of great artists and thinkers. His relationship with these courtiers and their lifestyle will be illustrated with contemporary scenes taken from beautiful miniatures and calligraphies by the leading scribes. The book will also include the only known contemporary portraits of Shah `Abbas and likenesses of important figures at his court. Illustrated with stunning images of the opulent treasures that were created under Shah `Abbass rule, many taken from the British Museums Safavid collections, this book will provide a compelling insight into this fascinating period.