Every home should have a work of art that matches its decor style. This means a classic artwork for a classic home and modern art for minimalist or maximalist modern homes. Primarily, when purchasing a piece of art, you should pay attention to the room or home’s decor style and understand the design theme. Then, choose accordingly. There is a dilemma here: traditional Iranian classic decor or Western classical decor.
What do we call a classic work of art?
Classic works of art refer to those created during specific historical and cultural periods, recognized as outstanding and enduring examples due to their quality, aesthetic appeal, and profound impact. Some types of works considered classical include:
In Ancient Greek and Roman art:
- Sculpture: such as the statues of Phidias and Michelangelo.
- Architecture: temples, theaters, and public buildings like the Parthenon and the Colosseum.
- Painting and mosaics: used in villas and public structures.
- Ancient Greek and Roman literature: works by Homer, Sophocles, Virgil, and Ovid.
During the Renaissance:
- Painting: works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael.
- Sculpture: Donatello’s sculptures.
- Architecture: works by Brunelleschi and Palladio.
- Renaissance and Baroque literature: works by William Shakespeare, Dante Alighieri, and Cervantes.
In Eastern ancient art:
- Paintings and artworks: such as Song Dynasty paintings and Buddha sculptures.
- Architecture: structures like stone temples in India and the Great Wall of China.
Classic art for Iranian traditional homes
In our culture, we also have comprehensive, authentic, and rich models that can serve as expressions of art in home decor. Iranian classical artworks encompass a wide range of arts, each reflecting Iran’s rich culture and history. These works are not only artistically valuable but also mirror the history and culture of this land. Choosing and displaying these works in home decor can imbue the space with a classic atmosphere and unique beauty.
Below, we introduce some of them. Keep in mind that how these elements are used and their compatibility with the decor depends on the decisions of interior designers and architects.
- Architecture: architecture of mosques, tile work, and patterns in traditional homes and palace-gardens.
- Painting and Miniatures: works by Kamal-ol-Din Behzad and Reza Abbasi.
- Wall paintings: such as paintings in Safavid and Qajar palaces like Chehel Sotoun and Ali Qapu.
- Handwoven Persian carpets: from Tabriz, Isfahan, Kashan, and Nain.
- Gheimeh and Jajim: traditional textiles still used in classic home decor.
- Calligraphy: classical calligraphy by masters like Mir Emad and Mirza Gholamreza Esfahani, as well as contemporary calligraphy art.
Related article: Getting to know the ins and outs of calligraphy art and its application in interior decor.
- Inscription art: the captivating, meaningful, and mysterious designs on historic mosques and buildings, written in Thuluth and Naskh scripts.
- Lapis Lazuli ceramics: a product of Laljin, Hamadan.
- Ceramics: glazed pottery and tiles that flourished during the Seljuk and Safavid eras.
- Textile weaving and Zari embroidery: such as Zari and Termeh.
- Shawl weaving: from Kashmir and Kerman.
- Metalworking: including all metal objects engraved with motifs, such as repoussé work.
- Jewelry and ornaments: crafted by Iranian artisans, used as decorative elements and classic art pieces for homes.
Final tips for enhancing the classic feature in homes
You can read about these two styles separately in the articles “Iranian Classic Style” and “Western Classic Style.” However, when choosing a classic work of art for your home, keep in mind that:
- For a Western classic-style home, select items like wall stuccoes, antique wooden furniture, elaborate chandeliers, and heavy patterned curtains that harmonize with the classic style and create a regal atmosphere. Additionally, using fabrics with non-dull, non-glossy colors, furniture arranged along a straight axis, and china or glassware with gold edges can enhance the space’s beauty and authenticity.
- For Iranian classic decor, pay attention to several key points. First, ensure harmony with the overall space, including colors, furniture style, and room sizes. Typically, Iranian decor features warm, natural colors, so select artworks with similar or complementary hues. Authentic, high-quality works from reputable artists or valuable reproductions from Iran’s historical periods—such as miniatures, handwoven carpets, Nastaliq calligraphy, and antique ceramics and tiles—are excellent choices.
- These artworks should be purchased carefully from reliable sources to ensure authenticity. Proper lighting is also essential to showcase the works and prevent damage; spotlights or indirect lighting can enhance their appearance. Additionally, choosing the right placement for each piece significantly impacts the beauty and harmony of your space. By considering these tips, you can create a decor that is not only beautiful and inviting but also reflects Iran’s rich culture and history.