Edinburgh University Press The Seljuqs and Their Successors: Art, Culture and History (Edinburgh Studies in Islamic Art)

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