Posted March 17, 1999

Mention Iran and most Westerners think of political upheaval over the past 20 years -- the overthrow of the Shah, the rise of the Ayatollah, the hostage crisis of 1979 and the fatwa on author Salmon Rushdie.

Iran, however, boasts a rich history and long tradition of craftsmanship and artistry, stretching from ancient to modern times. Exquisite Luristan bronze works, rich textiles and distinctive pottery have been created by the semi-nomadic people of this region for centuries.

To showcase this artistry, the Hearst Museum of Anthropology is currently displaying "Ancient Treasure from Modern Iran," a collection of bronze finials, spears and daggers that date from the first millennium BCE, Iron Age pottery and rugs and saddle bags made by the more modern Lurs, Qashqa'i and Baluchi tribes of western Iran.

Several special programs will be presented in conjunction with the exhibit, on display through 1999.

A panel discussion on Persian rug design, Sunday, March 28, at 2 p.m., will be chaired by John Sommer, president of the San Francisco Rug Society. Admission is $3 for students and $5 general. A traditional Persian music ensemble will perform on Cal Day, Saturday, April 17, at 1 and 3 p.m. A free lunchtime gallery talk on "The Ancient Near Eastern Context of Luristan" takes place Thursday, May 6, at 12:15 p.m.

Families are invited to celebrate the diverse cultures of Iran and learn folklore and dances from the children of the Afsaneh Center for Persian Art and Culture on Sunday, June 6, from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults and $2 for children five and older.

All events take place at the Hearst Museum, located in Kroeber Hall. For information, call 643-7648.

March 17 - 30, 1999 (Volume 27, Number 27)
Copyright 1999, The Regents of the University of California.
Produced and maintained by the Office of Public Affairs at UC Berkeley.
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