Islamic Art Close-Up

by Sheila R. Canby

This stunning book offers an exceptional view of design, workmanship and craft in paintings and manuscripts, calligraphy, metalwork, ceramics, jade, glass, wood and ivory.

The book opens with an explanation of the characteristics common to artistic creativity stretching back to the seventh century, from Spain to Indonesia. Works of superlative quality are then organised into chapters relating to central themes such as religion and belief, the supernatural and natural worlds, feasting, the hunt, war, music and power. The author explores each magnificent artwork in turn, providing cultural context and pointing out special features. By showing the complete artwork as well as enlarged details – sometimes virtually invisible to the naked eye – intriguing comparisons can be drawn and juxtapositions made between seemingly unrelated media. The selection of illustrations evokes the hand and eye of the most accomplished artists of the Islamic world.

144 pages, Paperback

Published October 15, 2015

Reviews

[Achernar · Rating 3 out of 5]

My knowledge of Islamic art certainly increased notably by reading this book. The book is clearly meant for people who know only a little or nothing about the subject. Names and years went over my head but nevertheless, it was nice to hear the history behind the development of certain aspects of Islamic art. The pictures were magnificent and the best thing in the book. I would have given four stars if the writing style hadn't been so dry.