The Art of Orientation

History, meaning and functions of the mosque through 125 fascinating objects The Art of Orientation explores the mosque through 125 artefacts from across the Islamic world. It employs an original and contemporary approach by incorporating essays by leading Arab and international authors, which provide a fresh interpretation of the cultural history behind the shown objects by interweaving concepts, histories and ideas. The Publication is a tribute to the mosque and an exploration of its origins, meanings and functions through a careful selection of artifacts, including intricate and striking pulpits, prayer rugs, lamps and manuscripts. The book examines the progression from the humble mud-brick structure of the prophet’s first Mosque in Medina to the imposing stone mosques of Cairo and Istanbul. It includes contributions from a range of highly acclaimed international scholars. Personalized and insightful they present these masterpieces of Islamic Art in an entertaining and accessible way.