Émille P. D’Avennes’ Arab Art

+ The Oxford Encyclopedia of The Islamic World

This oustanding large book (44 x 32 cm) by Émille Prisse D’Avennes, is a dazzling Compendia of Islamic Art, People and Architecture.

“(1807–1879), a French Orientalist, author and artist, was one of the greatest pre-20th century Egyptologists. An ardent admirer of the superb skills of Egyptian and Oriental artisans, he was enamoured of Arabic art. Over 40 years he explored Syria, Arabia, Persia, and resided in Egypt and Algeria. Converting to Islam, he travelled Egypt disguised as an Arab, using the name Edris Effendi. A student of ancient Egyptian and Islamic cultures, he later wrote: “We shall discuss all the arts, all the industries cultivated by Orientals with so much taste, brilliance, and fantasy. We will present splendid reproductions of the monuments, objects of art and luxury, which provide evidence of an advanced civilization, the influence of which has been felt even in Europe.”

The plates are absolutely stunning (a couple are actually 4 times the size of the book when unfolded).

Price (as new): $255 AUD + freight email link

The Oxford Encyclopedia of the Islamic World

“This unique 6 volumes reference is a comprehensive encyclopedia by John L. Esposito dedicated to the institutions, religion, politics, and culture in Muslim societies throughout the world. Beginning coverage in the 6th century & extending it to the present day, it covers Muslims in the Arab heartland as well as South and Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Americas. An invaluable resource, this unique Encyclopedia of the Islamic World offers extensive comparative and systematic analyses of Islamic beliefs, institutions, movements, practices, and peoples on an international scale. The articles range from brief 500-word essays to major interpretive and synthetic treatments of topics such as the Islamic state, pilgrimage, law, marriage, and foreign relations. Related entries cover areas of general interest such as social and political movements, women, Muslim minorities, human rights, Islam in the West, and inter-religious affairs. Prominent figures that had a lasting impact on Islam are also explored, including Muhammad, Aga Khan, Malcolm X, Muhammad Iqbal, ‘Ali Shari ‘ati, Ayatollah Khomeini & Hasan al-Turabi.”

Written in clear, jargon-free language, this is a balanced, well-rounded, and even-handed resource for both scholars and general readers interested in understanding Islam and its place in the world.

Price (as new): $950 AUD + freight email link