FASHIONING AN EMPIRE - TEXTILES FROM SAFAVID IRAN
temporary exhibition

This proposal seeks to embody the market of Isfahan, in the Safavid Period ruled by Shah ‘Abbas. We made an abstraction of the concept of market, as a direct link to the place where commerce was taking place, and society was knitted in the Persian Territory.

On one hand we have the allegory to the awning-shaped roofs made by the fabrics throughout the streets of Isfahan. On the other hand, the disposition of the space reminds us the labyrinthine flow of the market streets; The transparent fabrics hanging from the ceiling gives the visitors a direct link to the materiality of silk, guides the journey through the space showing small glimpses of what comes ahead, and awakening a sense of expectation and curiosity as the space with the objects reveals to their eyes.

The collection is exhibited throughout an exciting journey that envelops and captures the visitors in an inmersive and scenographic atmosphere. The objects and thematics of the collection dialogue with conceptual modern art installations, and makes us wonder about the impact of the Safavid identity woven throughout this one of a kind material, the legacy around the globe, and its impact in these contemporary times.

Design: Ámbito Cero  

Location: Museum of Islamic Art (MIA)

Date: October, 2023

Promotor: Qatar Museums

Client: Espai Visual

Surface: 780 m2

Builder: Espai Visual