Author Description

"Islamic Arts from Spain tells the fascinating story of the art and design produced in Spain under Islamic rule, and explores the long-lasting influence of Islamic Spain on the decorative arts." "The book looks first at artistic patronage during the ̀Golden Age' of the Umayyad caliphate, sovereigns of al-Andalus (Islamic Spain) from the mid-tenth to the early eleventh century, before discussing the Nasrid dynasty - rulers from their capital at Granada of a territory reduced in size by the resurgent Christian monarchs of northern Spain. It also explores the phenomenon of ̀Mudejar', Islamic-influenced arts produced for non-Muslim patrons in the Renaissance and, in the nineteenth-century, the craze for the Alhambresque', a style promoted by European designers such as Owen Jones." "World treasures such as the Alhambra in Granada and the Great Mosque of Cordoba continue to inspire artists, architects and designers, who draw on a tradition formed over nearly 800 years, when the Iberian Peninsula was home to one of the most sophisticated cultures of medieval Europe. This civilization produced some of the most beautiful works of art and architecture ever made in Europe or the Islamic lands, and provided a conduit for the trade of luxury goods and ideas between Europe and the world beyond." "Addressing the creation, suppression, rediscovery and influence of Islamic Spain's decorative art, architecture and ornament, the book is lavishly illustrated with objects from the V & A's world-class collections - from exquisite ivory caskets and marble tombstones to architectural models, jewellery, silk textiles, carpets and ceramics."--Jacket.