Description
'This magnificent survey of Qur'anic manuscripts provides a vivid illustration of Muslim devotion to the text of the Qur'an. The varied functional and artistic scripts, page orientations, folio sizes, and intricate decorations found here display the diversity and complexity that result from thirteen centuries of development and world-wide dissemination of the scripture. The careful and perceptive annotations provided by Keith Small for each illustration will certainly enhance the reader's appreciation of the history of the manuscript tradition of the Qur'an.' -- Professor Andrew Rippin 'In Qur'ans: Books of Divine Encounter Keith Small presents a beautiful array of Qur'an manuscripts from different periods and with different technical and aesthetic qualities. This work offers readers an extraordinary introduction to the ways in which Muslims have preserved and ornamented their scripture through the centuries.' -- Professor Gabriel Said Reynolds 'What a wonderful book! It is truly a feast for the eyes, with many beautiful illustrations that one lingers over with pleasure. But it is also a joy to read Keith Small's fascinating text, which introduces the astonishing diversity of ways the Qur'an has been rendered for nearly a millennium and a half--from sumptuous luxury editions for kings, to workaday and quirky regional editions for personal use, to tiny miniature editions and even talismanic shirts. This volume is sure to be in great demand as a gift and will be treasured by those who receive it!' -- Professor Fred M. Donner 'A brilliant journey through thirteen centuries of piety and art! Keith Small's presentation of the Qur'anic gems of the Bodleian Library offers a fascinating view of this collection, mirroring the art of Muslim copyists and illuminators, the personal devotion of the faithful through the ages as well as the interest Westerners for the sacred text of Islam. The book provides an excellent introduction to this history and a vibrant overview of the Qur'anic art of the book.' -- Professor Francois Deroche
About the Author
Keith E. Small is Qur'anic Manuscript Consultant to the Bodleian Library and Associate Research Fellow at the London School of Theology.
Book Information
ISBN 9781851242566
Author Keith E. Small
Format Paperback
Page Count 176
Imprint Bodleian Library
Publisher Bodleian Library