Splendors of Islam: Architecture, Decoration and Design

Features

• Cover Type: Hard Cover with 224 pages
• Published by: Vendome Press
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 0865652147
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-0865652149
• Book Dimensions: 13.2 x 10.1 x 1.1 inches
• Weighs: 4.5 pounds

From Library Journal
Examining the architecture of important Islamic buildings designed for a variety of purposes, this volume presents uniformly great photographs, matching the quality of the detail that they capture. The first section looks at the diversity of styles resulting from the syncretism of Islam with the many cultures it conquered. Section 2 discusses the various materials used and the accomplishments of builders and artists. Section 3 discusses the principal decorative themes, and the last section looks at aesthetics and the relationship between form and decoration. At the end of each section there appears a "documentary notebook," mainly containing photographs, that permits a fuller examination of the topic. Presenting the subject from these four viewpoints, rather than chronologically, yields some valuable insights that make this book an important contribution to the study of Islamic art. The volume has a map of the major sites of Islamic ornamentation, a chronology of the principal Islamic dynasties, and an index of the monuments. This truly gorgeous book should be in both public and academic libraries. Martin Chasin, Adult Inst., Bridgeport, CT
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Description
This awesome book is the key to understanding one of the world's most important architectural traditions, one that spawned major masterpieces throughout the near east, and particularly in Persia, India, Turkey, North Africa, Southern Russia, and Spain. As human representation is forbidden in Islamic religious monuments, design and ornamentation reach unparalleled heights of expression through mosaics, stucco, brickwood, and ceramic. Brilliant colors are used everywhere to enhance design.

This monumental study is a close collaboration between Dominique Clevenot, a distinguished scholar of art, and Gerald de George, a renowned photographer. Together, they visited and photographed hundreds of monuments, selecting their most noteworthy features. Unlike other books, which divide the subject geographically or chronically, the authors have approached this complicated topic from four different and interconnected angles: the history of Islamic architecture, materials and techniques, ornamental design, and the aesthetics of ornamentation.

Each of these topics is presented through a number of outstanding examples and comparable monuments from all over the Islamic world. Travelers overwhelmed by the Taj Mahal or the Alhambra will gain greater understanding. Architects and designers will find endless inspiration and ideas. Historians will be illuminated. Anyone interested in the vast world of Islam will find new knowledge in this awesome full-color publication.

Reader Reviews
Islam expanded quickly within a few centuries, embracing a wide area and altering the political and cultural heritage of the entire region. Splendors of Islam examines the visual effects of Islam, considering the structures in contrast with other architectural traditions and examining the role given to various decorative choices and styles. Four different approaches to Islam architecture provide an exceptionally well-rounded view, with color photo examples packing an oversized coverage.