The evolution and advancement of the book culture were not only scholarly, but also in the book production particularly in the art of bookbinding. The Islamic Bookbinding showcases over 70 manuscript covers that revolve around materials such as leather, lacquer and textile. Moreover, the catalogue take a comprehensive look into the bookmaking technique by showing the process itself; from the stitching of the folios to the preparation and ornamentation of the cover until the two parts are attached and perfectly bound. Other parts of the book such as the doublures, the text block as well as the flap, a unit that is unique to the Islamic bookbinding, are also highlighted in the catalogue. The Islamic book production was concentrated in the royal ateliers thus reflecting the finest work of the craftsmen under the patronage of a ruler. The catalogue thus explores the art of bookbinding from around the Islamic World, spanning geographically from Morocco and moving eastward to the Malay World and China. The practices and trends of Islamic Dynasties such as the Mamluk, Ottoman, Safavid and Qajar are highlighted through their decorative repertoire that also embraces the three main elements of Islamic art: geometrical pattern, vegetal form and calligraphy.
