A Story of Islamic Art

A Story of Islamic Art is a comprehensive introduction to the artistic and architectural traditions of the Islamic world, featuring fifty case studies presented as fictional narratives. These stories explore a wide range of objects and their historical context, from portable items to architectural decoration, and are supported by a scholarly framework. The book discusses key questions in Islamic art and architecture, including iconography, representation, script, geometric decoration, sacred and secular spaces, and socio-cultural context. It also highlights artistic interactions between the Islamic world and other regions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 22 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Providing an in-depth exploration of the artistic and architectural traditions of the Islamic world, A Story of Islamic Art delves into fifty captivating case studies, drawn from diverse regions across the Islamic world and spanning from the seventh to the twenty-first centuries. The unique aspect of these case studies lies in their presentation as fictional narratives, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the world of art and architecture, either in their original cultural contexts or at later stages in their historical development.

To support these narratives, the book incorporates a scholarly framework that facilitates a deeper understanding of the selected artifacts and their historical significance. The fifty case studies take the form of short stories, each centered around one or more remarkable objects from the Islamic world. These encompass a wide range of portable items, including various forms of media, such as book illustrations, calligraphy, photographs, architectural decoration, buildings, and archaeological sites.

In addition to the case studies, the book offers a comprehensive introduction, detailed maps, a timeline, a glossary, and comprehensive guides for further reading. This resource serves as an accessible and invaluable guide for scholars and enthusiasts alike, offering insightful answers to fundamental questions in the field of Islamic art and architecture.

Throughout the stories, the book explores a range of issues, including iconography, attitudes towards representation, the role of script, the intricacies of geometric decoration, the creation of sacred and secular spaces in architecture, and the socio-cultural context of art production and consumption. Furthermore, A Story of Islamic Art delves into the artistic interactions between the Islamic world and other regions, such as Europe and China, shedding light on the exchange of ideas, influences, and cultural blends that shaped the development of Islamic art and architecture.

In conclusion, A Story of Islamic Art is an engaging and informative introduction for readers and students interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Islamic art, history, and architecture. Through its captivating case studies and scholarly framework, the book provides a deep and immersive journey into the world of Islamic art, offering valuable insights and perspectives that will enrich the understanding and appreciation of this remarkable cultural heritage.

Weight: 550g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032448152