The Manuscript Tradition of the Islamic West: Maghribi Round Scripts and the Andalusi Identity

This book explores the history of manuscript production in the Islamic West between the 10th and 12th centuries, focusing on the development of Maghrib? round scripts. It presents over 200 dated manuscripts, many of which have not previously been published, and sheds light on the activities of calligraphers, copyists, notaries, and secretaries. Through a blend of art historical methods, paleographic analyses, and Arabic sources, it provides a comprehensive picture of Maghrib? manuscript culture, highlighting its significance for the creation of the Andalusi identity and its spread throughout the medieval Mediterranean.

Format: Hardback
Length: 528 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2022
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This captivating book delves into the rich tapestry of manuscript production in the Islamic West, spanning the vibrant era between the 10th and 12th centuries. It explores the intricate details that have managed to survive this remarkable period, with a particular focus on the emergence and evolution of Maghrib? round scripts, a distinctive form of Arabic writing that thrived in al-Andalus (Muslim Iberia) and Northwest Africa. Within its pages, readers are treated to a breathtaking display of more than 200 dated manuscripts, many of which have remained unpublished until now and hold immense historical significance. These manuscripts serve as a valuable window into the lives and practices of Maghrib? calligraphers, copyists, notaries, and secretaries, providing a profound insight into the development of their craft. Through a harmonious blend of art historical methods, palaeographic analyses, and a meticulous examination of Arabic sources, the book paints a comprehensive and lively portrait of Maghrib? manuscript culture. It traces the lineage of this tradition from its humble beginnings under the Umayyads of Cordova to its flourishing during the reign of the Almohad caliphate. This enlightening work not only unveils a previously overlooked chapter in the history of Arabic calligraphy but also sheds new light on the profound impact that this tradition had on the creation of the Andalusi identity and its widespread dissemination throughout the medieval Mediterranean. By delving into the material evidence that remains, this book offers a captivating journey into the world of medieval Islamic art and culture, inviting readers to appreciate the profound beauty and cultural significance of this neglected era.

Dimension: 244 x 170 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474499583