Oriental Treasures in the Mediterranean - Hardcover

Stierlin, Henri

9788854400870: Oriental Treasures in the Mediterranean

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 8854400874 ISBN 13: 9788854400870

Publisher: White Star, 2005

Hundreds of photographs illustrate the beautiful Islamic monuments and artwork that advanced early Mediterranean civilization to new heights in the 7th and 8th centuries-a true renaissance that took place long before northern Europe's. Madrasa, palace, fort, garden, public bath, and mausoleum designs are explored and placed into a historic and cultural context. Steirlin explicates the Islamic aesthetics of abstract decoration, formed by the interweaving of geometric mosaics, colors, and arabesques that expresses a feverish creativity on the part of Islamic artists of the period. The result is an engaging guide to a body of work fascinating for its very complexity.

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Synopsis:

In 400 colour photographs, a famous expert on Islamic cultures presents the oriental treasures that enhanced civilization between the 7th and 8th centuries. Conveyed here, in splendid photographs, are the many works of art and architecture that reflect this extraordinary renewal of the spirit. We see, for example, how mosques, madras as, palaces, forts, gardens, publish baths, a mausoleums served as vehicles for inventive, daring architectural designs. The aesthetics of abstract decoration formed by the interweaving of geometric mosaics, colours, and arabesques expressed a feverish creativity on the part of Islamic artists. All of these - from the great mosques to works of elegant calligraphy - are explored. Featuring 400 colour images, this is a major work by a leading expert on Islamic culture and is a part of "Timeless Treasures" series.

About the Author:

Henri Stierlin was born in Alexandria, Egypt, is a world-renowned art historian who has specialized in early Islamic art and monuments. Over his long career he has made numerous radio and television programs and his many books on culture have appeared in many languages; most recently Islamic Art: The Influence of Persian Architecture from Isfahan to the Taj Mahal, published in 2003.

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