Publication:

Islamic technology: an illustrated history

    Full details

    Authors & editors

    al-Hassan, Ahmad Y [Author]
    Hill, Donald R [Author]

    Publisher Cambridge University Press
    Year of publication 1986
    Languages

    English (main text)

    Medium Book
    Edition1
    ISBN0521422396
    Topics

    Energy & power > Ancient & medieval technology & industry

    Tags

    Scope & contentPublisher's website:
    Although the contributions of Islamic civilisations to science have long been recognised, the application of this scientific expertise to technology had been neglected until the publication of this then pioneering 1986 text. The book begins to remedy that neglect, first by celebrating the richness and ingenuity of the world of Islamic technology and then by pointing the way forward to its more detailed exploration.

    Lavishly illustrated, this book explores the major technological achievements of Islamic civilisations, namely the public works of civil engineering, the machines and mechanical devices which served to control water, provide power, serve as instruments or to amuse.

    Reviews & endorsements
    '… a wide-ranging survey of the technology used by Muslims in the Medieval period - and also today … It deserves to succeed in bringing its subject to a new audience in the West as well as instilling pride in past achievements in the Middle East.' History Today

    Copies held

    Accession no. 21857

    • Shelf location: F005-ALH
    • Donor: JSP Buckland Collection
    • Notes: 1992 edition; Inserted note on page 79

    Divisions within this publication

    • 1: Mechanical engineering
    • 2: Civil engineering
    • 3: Military technology
    • 4: Ships and navigation
    • 5: Chemical technology
    • 6: Textiles, paper and leather
    • 7: Agriculture and food technology
    • 8: Mining and metallurgy
    • 9: Engineers and artisans