Islamic Arts A&i

by Jonathan Bloom, Shelia S. Blair

Overview

In this comprehensive survey, the authors highlight those characteristics that connect the various arts of all the Islamic lands, without minimizing the differences. Dividing the time into three periods: 600-900, 900-1500 and 1500-1800, they set the artistic development in each era within its historical context and use art as a window into Islamic culture. Written in a lively and accessible style, and illustrated throughout with photographs, maps and plans, the book captures the essence of Islamic culture as expressed in its buildings, books and applied arts, and provides an essential introduction to the subject for both the student and the general reader.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780714831763
Publisher:	Phaidon Press
Publication date:	04/28/1997
Series:	Art and Ideas Series
Edition description:	REV
Pages:	448
Sales rank:	367,070
Product dimensions:	6.50(w) x 8.75(h) x 1.00(d)
Age Range:	13 - 18 Years

Table of Contents

	Introduction	5
	The Rise of Islam 600-900 AD	13
1	Mosques, Mansions and Mosaics: The Arts of Building	21
2	Pens and Parchment: The Koran and Early Writing	57
3	The Draped Universe: The Arts of the Loom	79
4	Pots, Pans and Pitchers: The Decorative Arts	99
	Regional Centres and Local Powers 900-1500 AD	129
5	Madrasas and Muqarnas: The Arts of Building	139
6	Penmen and Painters: The Arts of the Book	191
7	Warps, Wafts and Pile: The Arts of the Loom	221
8	Colours and Figures: The Decorative Arts	247
	The Great Empires 1500-1800 AD	285
9	Capitals and Complexes: The Arts of Building	293
10	From Manuscript to Page: The Arts of the Book	329
11	Velvets and Carpets: The Arts of the Loom	361
12	Bedecked and Bejewelled: The Decorative Arts	389
	Epilogue	415
	Glossary	424
	Major Dynasties	426
	Key Dates	428
	Further Reading	434
	Index	440
	Acknowledgements	446

Editorial Reviews

This beautifully illustrated volume examines various aspects of Islamic art, some of which are rarely discussed. Under "The Rise of Islam," Bloom and Blair (coauthors of The Art and Architecture of Islam, 1250-1800, LJ 1/95) write about the important Umayyad and Abbasid buildings, weaving, and "pots, pans, and pitchers." They recognize the overwhelming importance of calligraphy in Islamic art and devote a chapter to it in each of the major sections, which are organized historically. The major centers and local dynasties are also covered, albeit sometimes briefly. In a book that attempts coverage of a long period of time and a wide geographic area, it is delightful to find in-depth discussions of important issues and some refreshingly original insights. The maps, dynastic charts, and key-dates section will be important aids to the nonspecialist. Clearly written to carry the reader along at a fast pace, this volume is one of the best and most comprehensive books on the subject. Highly recommended.Martin Chasin, Adult Inst. Bridgeport, Ct.

Library Journal

Survey's Islamic art in its myriad cultural and regional variation during the first twelve centuries after the revelations of The Prophet. Without minimizing the differences, focuses on the temporal and geographical continuity of certain characteristics. Considers buildings, books, and applied arts. Highly illustrated, mostly with color photographs but also with maps and building plans. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

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