Arthur Pope Paintings

Arthur Upham Pope was an American expert on Iranian art and the editor of the authoritative survey, 'A Survey of Persian Art from Prehistoric Times to the Present'. Born in 1880 in Phenix, Rhode Island, Pope was not only a pivotal figure in the study of Persian art but also a significant contributor to the broader understanding of Iran's cultural heritage. His work laid the foundation for future scholarly research in the field and helped to introduce Persian art to the Western world.

Pope's academic journey began with his education at Brown University, where he completed his undergraduate studies. He later pursued further education at Harvard, although his most impactful learning came from his extensive travels and studies in Iran. His passion for Persian art and culture was ignited during these travels, leading him to dedicate his life to the study and promotion of Iranian art.

Throughout his career, Pope was known for his meticulous approach to art history, emphasizing the importance of cultural context in understanding artworks. He was instrumental in organizing the International Congress of Iranian Art and Archaeology in the 1920s and 1930s, which brought together scholars from around the world to share their research and insights on Persian art. Additionally, Pope played a significant role in the establishment of the American Institute for Persian Art and Archaeology in 1925.

Pope's magnum opus, 'A Survey of Persian Art', was published in 1938-1939 and remains a seminal work in the field to this day. This comprehensive survey covered the vast spectrum of Persian art, from prehistoric times through the Islamic period, and was the result of years of research, travel, and collaboration with other experts.

Beyond his scholarly contributions, Pope was also an advocate for the preservation of Iranian cultural heritage, working to protect and preserve historical sites and artifacts. His efforts in this area helped to raise awareness about the importance of cultural preservation and laid the groundwork for future conservation efforts in Iran.

Arthur Pope's dedication to the study and promotion of Persian art earned him numerous accolades and honors, both in Iran and internationally. He passed away in 1974, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence the field of Iranian art history. Through his work, Pope not only expanded the understanding of Persian art but also fostered greater appreciation and respect for Iran's rich cultural heritage among scholars and the public alike.