Synopses & Reviews
The powerful and culturally prolific Seljuqs—an empire whose reach extended from Central Asia to the eastern Mediterranean— dominated the Islamic world from the eleventh to the fourteenth century. The age of the Seljuqs was one that celebrated magnificence, in this world and the celestial realm. Court and Cosmos: The Great Age of the Seljuqs examines the roots and impact of this dynasty, featuring some 250 objects as evidence of the artistic and cultural flowering that occurred under Seljuq rule, and providing an invaluable record of the Seljuqs' contribution to the cultural heritage of the Islamic world.
Synopsis
A sweeping survey--the first of its kind--of the artistic, cultural, and technological achievements of the vast Seljuq empire
Rising from humble origins as Turkic tribesman, the powerful and culturally prolific Seljuqs--a dynastic tribe whose reach extended from Central Asia to the eastern Mediterranean--dominated the Islamic world from the 11th to the 14th century. This groundbreaking book examines the roots and impact of this formidable empire, featuring 300 objects as evidence of the artistic and cultural flowering that occurred under Seljuq rule.
Beginning with a historical overview of the dynasty, Court and Cosmos covers such topics as the rise of the Seljuq sultanate, the development of astrology and magic, the visual expression of discoveries in science, medicine, and technology, and the courtly, funerary, and literary arts. Glazed ceramics, incised glass, inlaid metalwork, handwoven textiles, illuminated manuscripts, and more are captured in new photographs. Court and Cosmos is a comprehensive study of the breadth of Seljuq achievement, illuminating the splendor of one of Islam's most magnificent dynasties and providing insights into a rich cultural tradition that has shaped the legacy of Islamic culture to this day.
About the Author
Sheila R. Canby is Patti Cadby Birch Curator in Charge, Deniz Beyazit is Assistant Curator, and Martina Rugiadi is Assistant Curator in the Department of Islamic Art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. A. C. S. Peacock teaches Middle Eastern Studies at the University of St. Andrews, Fife.