Writing Signs: The Fatimid Public Text - Softcover

Bierman, Irene A. A.

 
9780520208025: Writing Signs: The Fatimid Public Text
Softcover
ISBN 10: 0520208021 ISBN 13: 9780520208025
Publisher: University of California Press, 1998

Synopsis

Irene Bierman explores the complex relationship between alphabet and language as well as the ways the two elements are socially defined by time and place. She focuses her exploration on the Eastern Mediterranean in the sixth through twelfth centuries, notably Cairo's Fatimid dynasty of 969-1171. Examining the inscriptions on Fatimid architecture and textiles, Bierman offers insight into all elements of that society, from religion to the economy, and the enormous changes the dynasty underwent during that period. Bierman addresses fundamental issues of what buildings mean, how inscriptions affect that meaning, and the role of written messages and the ceremonies into which they are incorporated in service of propagandist goals. Her method and conclusions provide a pioneering model for studying public writing in other societies and offer powerful evidence to show that writing is a highly charged and deeply embedded social practice.

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About the Author

Irene A. Bierman is Associate Professor of Art History at the University of California, Los Angeles, and Director of the University's Gustav E. von Grunebaum Center for Near Eastern Studies.

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Publisher
University of California Press
Publication date
1998
Language
English
ISBN 10 
0520208021
ISBN 13 
9780520208025
Binding
Paperback
Edition number
1
Number of pages
232

Other Popular Editions of the Same Title

9780520208018: Writing Signs: The Fatimid Public Text

Featured Edition

ISBN 10:  0520208013 ISBN 13:  9780520208018
Publisher: University of California Press, 1998
Hardcover