Islam through Objects

Islam through Objects is a comprehensive study that examines the diverse perspectives on Islamic materiality and challenges the notion of Islamic aversion to material aspects of religion. It explores a wide range of objects used by Muslims in daily life, such as prayer beads, coins, amulets, clothing, jewelry, and domestic adornments, and considers their provenance, materials, uses, and historical significance. The book also considers temporal, regional, and sectarian variations in styles, uses, and theological perspectives, providing a template for the study of religion and material culture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Islam through Objects is a groundbreaking work in the field of Islamic material cultural studies, offering a comprehensive and multidisciplinary exploration of Islamic materiality. Authored by Anna Bigelow, this book brings together scholars from various disciplines, including religion, anthropology, art history, folklore, history, and more, to challenge misconceptions about Islamic aversion to material aspects of religion.

The book is structured into chapters, each focusing on a specific object in daily use by Muslims. These objects range from prayer beads to coins, amulets to a cistern well, clothing to jewelry, and bodily and domestic adornments. Through detailed descriptions and analysis of each object, the book delves into both generic and particular aspects, considering its provenance, materials, uses, and history. Moreover, it explores the broader history, variety, and uses of these objects within Islamic history and cultures, taking into account temporal, regional, and sectarian variations in styles, uses, and theological perspectives.

The introduction to the book provides a valuable assessment of the various approaches to Islamic material culture in recent scholarship. It highlights the significance of studying religion and material culture together, emphasizing the interplay between current theory, nuanced narratives, and the creative and imaginal capacities of Muslims throughout history. Islam through Objects serves as a valuable template for scholars and students interested in exploring the complex relationship between religion, materiality, and cultural expression in Islamic contexts.

In conclusion, Islam through Objects is a groundbreaking contribution to the field of Islamic material cultural studies. By bringing together a diverse range of perspectives and examining a wide array of objects, the book challenges misconceptions and provides a rich and nuanced understanding of Islamic materiality. It offers valuable insights into the historical, cultural, and theological dimensions of Islamic practices and artifacts, and serves as a valuable resource for scholars and students alike.

Weight: 510g
Dimension: 157 x 235 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350138308