Renowned scholars present key new thinking on art, sciences, belief and history in the Seljuq period
Draws on new and updated use of historical sources
Opens new paths in the research on magic beliefs, religion, astronomy, the concept of craftsmanship versus artistry, interaction between rulers and elites, ethno-religious and ethno-cultural diversity and emigration of people
Case studies on the treatment of art objects (the oldest extant Shahnama, and a unique stucco panel) show innovations in conservation practices and set new strategies in dealing with restored objects
Includes a comprehensive comparison of Seljuq and Ghaznavid titulature: a key tool for any kingship-related research in the fields of history, epigraphy, archaeology and art history
Rising from nomadic origins as Turkish tribesmen, the powerful and culturally prolific Seljuqs and their successor states dominated vast lands extending from Central Asia to the eastern Mediterranean from the eleventh to the fourteenth century.
Supported by colour images, charts, and maps, this volume examines how under Seljuq rule, migrations of people and the exchange and synthesis of diverse traditions – including Turkmen, Perso-Arabo-Islamic, Byzantine, Armenian, Crusader and other Christian cultures – accompanied architectural patronage, advances in science and technology and a great flowering of culture within the realm. It also explores how shifting religious beliefs, ideologies of authority and lifestyle in Seljuq times influenced cultural and artistic production, urban and rural architecture, monumental inscriptions and royal titulature, and practices of religion and magic. It also presents today’s challenges and new approaches to preserving the material heritage of this vastly accomplished and influential civilization.
Contributors
Viola Allegranzi
Deniz Beyazit
Patricia Blessing
Sheila Canby
Roberta Giunta
Margaret Graves
Carole Hillenbrand
Robert Hillenbrand
Renata Holod
Lorenz Korn
Stefan Masarovic
Leslee Michelsen
Andrew Peacock
Scott Redford
Martina Rugiadi
Yasser Tabbaa
Deborah Tor
George Saliba
Rustam Shukurov
Alessandro Sidoti
Mario Vitalone
