Central Asian Cultures, Arts, and Architecture

by Ardi Kia

Overview

This book invites readers on a journey through time, to explore the multifaceted history of Central Asia. Through transcontinental passages such as the Silk Road, the book provides links among the major civilizations of China, India, Persia, and the Mediterranean, which in turn influences the characteristics of the region and beyond. For over seven thousand years, Central Asian residents have left a record of distinguished cultural artifacts. Like creators and innovators of any age or period, they sought to respond as creatively as possible to the necessities of their societies as a whole, and those of their individual patrons. In doing so they have given us a timeless source through which we can detect the dynamic stages of their creativity throughout history, as well as the breadth of our own rich cultural and artistic heritage.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780739199299
Publisher:	Lexington Books
Publication date:	11/14/2016
Pages:	134
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.80(h) x 0.50(d)

About the Author

Dr. Ardi Kia is the award winning cofounder and codirector of Central and Southwest Asian Studies Program, (CSWA Center), at The University of Montana.

Table of Contents

List of Figures
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Chapter 1: Central Asia - Stone Age
Chapter 2: Central Asia - Bronze AgeChapter 3: Mass Migrations and Establishment of the First Empires
Chapter 4: Satrap of Parthia and Parthian Empire
Chapter 5: Satrap of Bakhtaran, Kushan Empire and Tarim Basin Buddhist Kingdoms
Chapter 6: Sassannian Empire - The Birth of A State Religion
Chapter 7: The Coming of IslamChapter 8: The Satrap of Soghdia
Chapter 9: Soghdia - Bokhara and the Golden Age of Samanids
Chapter 10: Soghdia - Samarkand and Timurid’s Golden Age
Chapter 11: Satrap of Khwarazmia
Chapter 12: Seljuks, Kara Khitaeyes and Mongols in Central AsiaChapter 13: Central Asian Artistic Traditions
Chapter 14: Manas
References
About the Author

Editorial Reviews

Prof. Ardeshir Kia’s introduction to the arts, cultures, and architecture of Central Asia provides a comprehensive overview concentrating on Central Asian cultures from prehistory to the early medieval period and beyond. Students will appreciate the breadth of information provided about modern and contemporary archaeological explorations, myriad forms of artistic endeavors and material culture, especially “animal style” jewelry, wall murals, and ceramics, the colossal architecture of royal palaces, and the variety of Central Asian religious traditions. A rich and varied bibliography will lead students to further resources.

Paul A. Dietrich

An erudite and elegant study through archival and archaeological sources on Central Asia; it is one that highlights the cultural pluralism and vibrant traditions of this important region.

G.G. Weix

Professor Kia provides a valuable resource with numerous bibliographic references for the student of Central Asian history and culture.

N. Brian Winchester