Pearls of Wisdom: The Arts of Islam at the University of Michigan

by Christiane Gruber, Ashley Dimmig

This catalogue of a Kelsey Museum of Archaeology exhibition showcases a selection of Islamic art works held in the University of Michigan's collections. Rather than arranged chronologically, geographically, or by media, the objects are organized thematically and conceptually. Themes include the intersections between function and decoration, the aesthetic power of everyday objects, visual play, wit, and magic, connections and interrelationships across art forms, and light symbolism and illumination. The volume not only highlights the strengths of the university's collections of Islamic art but also explores various issues integral to the conception and production of art in the Islamic world from the medieval period until the present day.

128 pages, Paperback

First published October 31, 2014

Reviews

[Linniegayl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is yet another niche book written for a special exhibit held at the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology at the University of Michigan. I read it to learn more about Islamic art and some of the artifacts held in the Kelsey's collection. The book has gorgeous photos of many artifacts, along with descriptions of the artifacts. The introduction to the book is very helpful as an introduction to Islamic Art.