Lost Maps of the Caliphs

The Book of Curiosities is a large and richly illustrated book completed in Cairo about a millennium ago. Lost Maps of the Caliphs provides the first general overview of the book and the unique insight it offers into medieval Islamic thought. It demonstrates the medieval understanding of the structure of the cosmos and illustrates the pervasive assumption that almost any visible celestial event had an effect upon life on Earth. It also reconsiders the history of global communication networks at the turn of the previous millennium.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 368 pages
\n Publication date: 01 February 2019
\n Publisher: Bodleian Library
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A millennium ago, in the vibrant city of Cairo, a remarkable book was completed, adorned with intricate illustrations that captured the essence of the universe. Spanning thirty-five chapters, this unknown author embarked on a captivating journey, guiding the reader from the vast expanse of the cosmos and its celestial bodies to the Earth and its diverse lands, islands, and inhabitants. This extraordinary treatise, known as The Book of Curiosities, remained unknown to modern scholars until the remarkable discovery of a manuscript copy in the year 2000. Lost Maps of the Caliphs offers a comprehensive overview of The Book of Curiosities and the unique insights it provides into medieval Islamic thought. The book begins with an account of the remarkable discovery of the manuscript and its acquisition by the esteemed Bodleian Library. The authors then utilize The Book of Curiosities to reassess the development of astrology, geography, and cartography during the first four centuries of Islam. Early astronomical maps and drawings serve as a testament to the medieval understanding of the cosmos, showcasing the pervasive belief that almost any visible celestial event had a profound impact on the lives of people on Earth. Lost Maps of the Caliphs also delves into the history of global communication networks at the turn of the previous millennium. Not only is The Book of Curiosities considered one of the greatest achievements in medieval map-making, but it also makes a significant contribution to the rich tapestry of Islamic civilization.

\n Weight: 750g\n
Dimension: 235 x 192 x 30 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781851244911\n \n