Dictionary of Islamic Architecture [Hardcover]

Andrew Petersen (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0415060842 | ISBN-13: 978-0415060844 | Publication Date: December 18, 1995

The Dictionary of Islamic Architecture provides the fullest range of artistic, technical, archaeological, cultural and biographical data for the entire geographical and chronological spread of Islamic architecture - from West Africa through the Middle East to Indonesia, and from the seventh to the eighteenth centuries of the Common Era.
Over 500 entries are arranged alphabetically and fully cross-referenced and indexed to permit easy access to the text and to link items of related interest.
Four main categories of subject matter are explored:
* dynastic and regional overviews
* individual site descriptions
* biographical entries
* technical definitions
Over 100 relevant plans, sketch maps, photographs and other illustrations complement and illuminate the entries, and the needs of the reader requiring further information are met by individual entry bibliographies.

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

This resource provides an alphabetically arranged overview of the history of Islamic architecture. It consists of hundreds of entries focusing on geographical, archaeological, historical, and architectural terminology (from many languages). Every entry begins with a simple, one-sentence definition (for some technical terms there is no further explanation); most then continue with an expanded explanation from one paragraph to multiple pages in length. Many of the longer entries also include limited "Further reading" lists and "See also" references to other terms. Accompanying most entries are illustrations in the form of photographs, plans, maps, and drawings: these are especially effective when discussing architectural details unique to Islamic buildings. Critics may question the selection of entries on specific monuments, the paucity of information on modern developments, and the lack of a detailed index. However, considering its well-illustrated broad coverage of the subject and inclusion of the non-Arab Islamic world, this volume will prove an invaluable addition to any library with an interest in architecture or Islamic studies.
Eugene C. Burt, Art Inst. of Seattle Lib.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review

...considering its well-illustrated broad coverage of the subject and inclusion of the non-Arab Islamic world, this volume will prove an invaluable addition to any library with an interest in architecture or Islamic studies..
– Library Journal , 12/95

An indispensable reference tool for all academics, students and researchers involved in the study of Islamic architecture and archaeology. It is also an accessible resource for anyone interested in Islamic or Middle East studies, or who just needs a wide-ranging introduction to this increasingly popular field. A useful addition to the reference library shelves..
– Reference Reviews Volume 10/5, 1996

Andrew Peterson's book is a welcome addition to the Islamic library, to students of Islamic architecture, as well as to the general public interested in Islamic cultural history. Author Peterson gives us a comprehensive, thourough, and profound treatment opf gis subject..... [This is] an excellent study of the rich repository of Islamic culture, and it will enrich architectural and Islamic libraries. This is a book that professional and academic readers will find essential and that general audiences will find interesting and instructive..
– Digest of Middle East Studies, Summer 1996

...a useful introduction that will answer specific questions and suggest directions for more thorough study...essential to architecture reference collections..
–Choice, December 1996

.. covers the length and breadth of the Muslim world from classical to modern times, offering a wealth of information ... Architectural drawings, photographs, and maps are superbly produced and well chosen in this important volume; and articles on important countries [and] regions ... provide readers with a strong historical and geographical summary of the Islamic architectural tradition.
–Religion and the Arts

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Hardcover: 352 pages
• Publisher: Routledge (December 18, 1995)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0415060842
• ISBN-13: 978-0415060844
• Product Dimensions: 9.7 x 7.6 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #5,021,365 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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