Mosque: Approaches to Art and Architecture

Mosque examines the history, culture, evolution and functions of the Muslim house of worship through the prism of its artistic objects and architectural elements. Contributors present a range of elements, from dome to mihrab, to mosque furniture including lamps, prayer rugs and Qur’an stands. In addition, the book draws attention to the importance of mosque heritage through special projects and initiatives that study, preserve and revitalize the traditional arts of the mosque. This unique book brings together prominent architects, art historians, artists, historians and curators to explore innovative approaches towards the study of mosques through the presentation of original research and insights about mosque-related cultural objects. It is essential reading for anyone interested in the art and culture of the Muslim world.

Idries Trevathan is the Curator of Islamic Art at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra). Since its opening in 2018, he has helped establish Ithra as a major destination for Islamic art through building its collection from scratch and curating major exhibitions in partnership with the Los Angeles County Museum (LACMA) and the Supreme Council of Egyptian Antiquities. Trevathan received his BA undergraduate degree in conservation studies at the City & Guilds of London Art School (2006), and his MPhil (2013) and PhD (2018) in Islamic art from the Prince’s School of Traditional Arts in London. He has also authored and edited several books including Colour, Light and Wonder in Islamic Art (Saqi Books 2020) and The Art of Orientation: An Exploration of the Mosque through Objects (Hirmer 2020) and Hijrah: In the Footsteps of the Prophet (Hirmer 2022).