Carpets from Islamic Lands: The al-Sabah Collection, Kuwait

Name: Carpets from Islamic Lands: The al-Sabah Collection, Kuwait
SKU: 9780500970331
Availability: InStock

EGP2,725.00

A celebration of more than forty of the finest classical carpets created in Egypt, Turkey, Persia, the Caucasus, and India between the sixteenth and nineteenth centuries

Among the most beautiful and precious textiles in the world, carpets from Islamic lands have been treasured for centuries. Prized by European monarchs and traded as far afield as Tibet and the Americas, these woven and knotted masterpieces are both distinguished works of art and revealing utilitarian objects that offer a glimpse of life in the Islamic world. The third volume in Thames & Hudson’s series cataloguing the al-Sabah Collection, this book features some of the finest classical carpets from the sixteenth to the nineteenth centuries, along with several intriguing pre- Islamic carpet fragments. Carpet and textile expert Friedrich Spuhler describes the spectacular al-Sabah Collection in the context of the history of Islamic art and recounts the stories behind individual carpets. The book includes pictures of many carpets never before reproduced in print, as well as a few that may have been lost forever following the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1990. 112 color illustrations

SKU: 9780500970331 Categories: Books, E Fashion, E General Art, English Books Author: Friedrich Spuhler

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Carpets from Islamic Lands: The al‑Sabah Collection, Kuwait

Carpets from Islamic Lands: The al‑Sabah Collection, Kuwait Book Description

Carpets from Islamic Lands: The al‑Sabah Collection, Kuwait invites readers to explore a world of silk, wool and knotting mastery. This richly illustrated English volume showcases more than forty classic textiles woven between the 16th and 19th centuries. You will travel from Egypt and Turkey to Persia, the Caucasus and India, discovering how each carpet delighted European monarchs, reached Tibet and even crossed to the Americas. The guide balances vivid colour plates with expert commentary, making it perfect for art lovers, history buffs and design fans.

Inside the third volume of Thames & Hudson’s al‑Sabah series, Friedrich Spuhler leads you through each carpet’s origin and cultural context. He explains how the pieces reflect wealth, taste and religious values of their creators. Meanwhile, the narrative highlights rare pre‑Islamic fragments that hint at earlier weaving traditions. The book also documents several carpets that may have vanished after the 1990 Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, giving scholars and collectors valuable visual records.

Throughout the pages you will find 112 full‑colour illustrations that capture every detail of pattern, fringe and dye. Many of these images have never been reproduced before, offering fresh visual insight. Additionally, the layout blends scholarly notes with accessible language, so both experts and casual readers can enjoy the content. The result feels authoritative yet inviting, encouraging you to explore further.

Key Features of Carpets from Islamic Lands: The al‑Sabah Collection, Kuwait

The book showcases over forty of the finest classical carpets, each paired with concise historical notes. Moreover, each illustration is printed on high‑quality paper to preserve the vivid hues of the original textiles. Readers can explore knot density, material choice and motif symbolism without feeling overwhelmed. Furthermore, a timeline places each carpet within broader Islamic art developments, helping you see connections across regions and centuries.

Another standout feature is the inclusion of previously unpublished photographs of carpets that survived wartime turmoil. Because these rare images are unique, the volume serves as an essential reference for museums, historians and interior designers. Additionally, the author’s storytelling approach makes each carpet feel like a living artifact, revealing the lives of the weavers and patrons behind the designs.

Why Read This Book?

Fans of decorative arts will appreciate the depth and visual richness of this guide. Readers will learn how Islamic carpets influenced European interior trends and why monarchs collected them as status symbols. The guide also explains how trade routes spread design ideas across continents, offering a broader perspective on cultural exchange. Moreover, the clear, engaging prose invites you to explore a subject often confined to academic journals.

Therefore, this book is perfect for anyone who wants to enrich their knowledge of world heritage while enjoying stunning artwork. It helps interior designers find authentic inspiration, supports scholars with rare visual documentation, and allows casual readers to experience the elegance of historic weaving. In short, the volume offers both education and aesthetic pleasure.

About This Book

Carpets from Islamic Lands: The al‑Sabah Collection, Kuwait provides a rare glimpse into a treasured artistic tradition. More detail about this book and its author can be found on Goodreads. Also discover the best English books online in our store through Kalimat Bookstore. Enjoy the journey, explore the patterns, and experience the timeless beauty of Islamic carpet weaving.