Islamic Art

This beautiful survey of Islamic art and architecture begins with a very brief (5-page) introduction to Islam, covering the Qur'an, the five pillars of Islam, Muslim law, mysticism, and the Shia and Sunni "branches" of Islam. Such a brief introduction necessarily leaves out a great deal, but it is well written presentation of the basic facts. A section on the basic principles of Islamic art and architecture covers geometric forms and patterns, common architectural forms and elements, calligraphy, and the applied arts (primarily ceramics and metalwork). Mozzati introduces each topic with a few pages explaining the origins, meanings and applications of the form, pattern, style, etc., and then provides numerous examples with full-color images and informative captions.Following this introduction, Mozzati traces the history of Islamic art and architecture: The Umayyads -- The Abbasids -- The Mediterranean basin between the eighth and eleventh centuries -- Central Asia between the tenth and twelfth centuries -- The Mediterranean basin between the eleventh and fifteenth centuries -- The Seljuqs -- The Ilkhanids, the Timurids and the Khanates -- The Ottoman Empire -- Persia from the Safavids to the Qajar dynasty -- The Indian subcontinent (from the table of contents). Each chapter starts with an introduction to the era and historical context, then presents numerous examples via images and captions. The book concludes with a glossary, brief descriptions of each of the major dynasties and figures in the eras covered, and a bibliography. Unfortunately, it lacks an index.The large format and high image quality makes this book a joy to read. The content makes it a worthwhile volume for undergraduate research. Highly recommended for art, architecture and design libraries.

A great book on Islamic Art and architecture. Informative, interesting, a great treatment of the subject.

this book was/is extremely helpful in my research around Islamic Art and sacred geometry. I highly recommend it for anyone interested in this subject. The images are beautiful.

Top notch writing. Incredible photography.

This book is gorgeous and well-written. It actually covers Islamic architecture more than it does Islamic art, but of course architecture is often art, and certainly many of the beautiful buildings portrayed in this book are.The presentation is simple - large, clear photographs on white pages - with thoughtful descriptions of the photographs, as well as chapters of text describing different periods and regions. The book includes many works that are not normally seen by western eyes - those that exist in Iran, Iraq, and other countries that we don't tend to visit. The works chosen are often stunning.I'd recommend this book to those interested in art, architecture, and history. Your eyes will be opened to some of man's amazing creations.

I love the book. It is thorough and give a fantastic impressions of Islamic art. It includes various parts of the world. Enjoyable to view.