In Praise of the Artisan

Trevathan illuminates how Islamic artisans redefine tradition by shaping contemporary global craft with enduring vitality.

In this pioneering work, Idries Trevathan takes readers on a journey through the world of Islamic arts and crafts, revealing how master artisans are keeping ancient traditions alive in the 21st century. Far from being relics of the past, these crafts continue to evolve, shaping cultural identity and artistic expression in bold and imaginative ways.

Drawing from a landmark exhibition at Ithra in Saudi Arabia-featuring 140 works spanning 1,600 years-Trevathan showcases the extraordinary diversity of Islamic art, from striking glasswork and intricate ceramics to grand architectural masterpieces. He brings readers inside the workshops of contemporary artisans across the Muslim world, from stone carvers in Rajasthan and embroiderers in Makkah to calligraphers in Istanbul and woodworkers in Cairo. These skilled craftspeople are not only preserving the past, but redefining the future.

Alongside contributors, Trevathan challenges the outdated distinction between 'fine art' and 'craft', offering new insights that reflect both historical perspectives and contemporary realities. By examining the intersections of traditional techniques with modern markets and challenges, he demonstrates the continued vitality of Islamic craftsmanship in a rapidly changing world.