The Art of the Qur'an: Treasures from the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts

Smithsonian Books, 2016-11-07. Paperback. New. 9x1x13. New. Clean, unmarked pages. Fine binding and cover. Softcover. "Published in conjunction with an exhibition of the same name at the Freer Sackler Galleries at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC, this volume succeeds in giving a thorough overview of the history of the Qur'an and the role of Qur'anic text in Islamic societies from the late seventh through the 17th centuries. Accompanying essays from experts with academic, museum, and library backgrounds cover a historiography of the topic, a history of collecting and exhibiting Qur'ans, and the evolution of and regional distinctions in materials, layouts, and styles (in calligraphy and in illumination and ornamentation). Though dry at times, the writing is clear and easy to follow. The catalog's 67 entries include beautiful photographs of the items (Qur'ans, Qur'an chests, and Qur'an stands) alongside detailed item descriptions. A glossary is included. VERDICT Students and experts of Islamic history, religious studies, and Islamic art will find this work extremely useful and will delight in its comprehensive nature. Essential for academic and art libraries, but not a necessary purchase for public libraries." - Jennifer Naimzadeh, Library Journal. 9781588345783 1588345785 9780934686402 0934686408. This is an oversized or heavy book, which WILL require additional postage for international delivery outside the US.