Islamic art is usually viewed in three chronological divisions. These provide an easier understanding not only of historical accounts but also of how the Islamic World evolved over time, artistically and culturally. The chronological order is as follows: the Early Period, which occurred from around 640 to 900 CE; the Medieval period, which occurred from around 900 to 1517 CE; and the final, or Later period, which occurred from around 1517 to 1924 CE.