The Iconography of Islamic Art: Studies in Honour of Robert Hillenbrand

Bernard O'Kane

Paper, 352 pages, 32 b/w figures, 181 color plates.
ISBN: 978-0-7486-3367-8
$70.00

October, 2005
Cloth, 352 pages, 32 b/w figures, 181 color plates.
ISBN: 978-0-7486-2090-6
Edinburgh University Press
$220.00

This lavishly illustrated collection explores the iconography of Islamic art and presents a diverse range of approaches.

The contributors link the interpretation of objects to textual sources, resulting in a collection of in-depth studies of diverse motifs such as the peacock, trees, and the figure holding a cup and branch. In addition, new interpretations are presented of other objects, e.g. an Abuyyid metal basin or Mongol painting.

Textual sources on the Ka'ba or the use of marble provide a starting point for the examination of objects and their relationship to history. The architectural decoration of monuments from Egypt to India are also analyzed as are Arab and Safavid paintings. There is also an appraisal of links with Christian elements in Sicily and Buddhist stupas.

About the Author

Bernard O'Kane is professor of Islamic art and Architecture at the American University in Cairo. Robert Hillenbrand is professor of Islamic art at the University of Edinburgh. He is the author of Islamic Architecture.

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