"The first in-depth study of the art of the Fatimids to be published in English, this attractive volume explores the splendours of an opulent and technically breathtaking branch of medieval Islamic culture. The Fatimids, who took their name from Fatima, daughter of the prophet Muhammad, were a major power in the Mediterranean, ruling over North Africa, Egypt and Syria from 909 to 1171 AD." "Chosen from the V&A's outstanding collection - one of the most important in the world outside Cairo - the material is divided into five sections: rock crystal, textiles, ceramics, glass, and a final chapter looking at examples of ivory, woodwork and metalwork. General discussion of each subject is followed by detailed study of key objects, many of which have not previously been photographed and are of exceptional beauty." "Fatimid Art will be an important reference for art historians and all scholars working in Islamic and medieval disciplines, as well as the growing number of collectors and dealers."--BOOK JACKET.