Description

Content Overview

This volume offers a comprehensive exploration of early Muslim architecture, tracing its origins and evolution through a detailed examination of cultural and historical contexts. Professor Creswell delves into the synthesis of various artistic traditions and regional influences that contributed to the distinctive features of Islamic architectural heritage. The text is richly supplemented with black and white illustrations and a central photo plate section, providing visual insights into the discussed monuments and design elements.

Condition and Physical Description

The book measures approximately 8 inches by 5 inches, typical of mid-20th century Penguin publications. The wraps exhibit some edge wear and light scuffing, particularly noticeable at the spine ends and corners, with small creases and age-induced toning and spotting across the covers. Despite these signs of shelf wear, the binding remains firm and intact, ensuring durability for continued reading and study. Internally, the pages show the expected tanning from age but remain clean and free from markings, preserving the clarity of both text and illustrations.

Significance and Use

As a scholarly yet accessible work, this edition serves as an important resource for students, historians, and enthusiasts of Islamic art and architecture. The inclusion of a thorough bibliography and index facilitates further research, while the engaging prose allows readers to appreciate the complexities underlying the development of Muslim architectural forms. Whether used as a reference or a general introduction, this book stands as a valuable addition to any collection focused on Middle Eastern history or architectural studies.

Additional Notes

Published during a period when interest in Islamic art was gaining momentum in the West, this edition reflects both the academic rigor and the popular appeal characteristic of Penguin’s MMPB series. Collectors may find value not only in its content but also in its representation of mid-century publishing trends and design aesthetics.

Penguin, Middlesex, 1958. A 407. Larger MMPB, 330 pages including Bibliography and Index, followed by ads. Wraps show some edge, cover and light spine end wear, small creases, reading creases on spine, age-toning and small spots. Binding sound. Interior clean and unmarked; black & white illustrations, center black & white photo plate section; pages tanned. ‘Professor Creswell explains how Muslim architecture was born, as well as describing the cultural influences which help to mould it and which were responsible for its early duality.’ (from verso of front wrap)