Arkhitektura v islamskom iskusstve

On the basis of works from the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, this Hermitage exhibition catalogue shows the development of Islamic architectural forms from the establishment of Islam in the late seventh century until the nineteenth century, when European influence gave rise to different trends in Islamic architecture. The items presented are divided into several groups, of which the most unusual are the various architectural details, painted tiles, stone and wood carvings that once adorned buildings. The depictions of buildings in manuscript miniatures executed in different styles and traditions offer splendid visual documentation. In addition, there are numerous objects of applied art whose shape and decoration bear the stamp of architectural influence. Made of bronze, fabric, ceramics and wood, these objects come from various regions of the Islamic world (from Spain to India). The catalogue has a glossary, bibliography, and English summary. -- Summary written by John W. Emerich, Bronze Horseman Literary Agency.