GIFT GIVING in Persia. The following articles constitute a preliminary attempt at studying various aspects of gift giving in a chronological and historical framework, from the pre-Islamic era to the early modern period. An anthropological approach, dealing with the practice of gift exchange in local communities, tribal clans, villages, extended families, neighborhoods, and urban quarters needs a separate and more detailed treatment. Since the meaning and the function of gift exchange and its practice in pre-modern societies need clarification, this entry will begin with some introductory remarks on the subject.

i. Introduction.

ii. In pre-Islamic Persia.

iii. In the medieval period. See Supplement.

iv. In the Safavid period.

v. In the Qajar period.

(Multiple Authors)

Last Updated: April 10, 2012