In this book, Godfrey Goodwin virtually documents the scientific foundations of Islamic art and architecture with high-quality photographs taken by meticulously exploring Anatolia. Aren't dome details, the squinches on which the dome rests, the skillful circulation of hot water under marble in a hammam, and the optimal use of sun's heat and light still fundamental issues in architecture today?

It is already known that the author is familiar with Ottoman history... Beyond the fundamental concerns of architecture, and even its sometimes annoyingly repetitive forms, he also provides educational insights into fine architectural works such as the decorative arts that draw one in with great pleasure and curiosity, and the wood craftsmanship, pen work, gilding, natural and artificial lighting, and acoustics that are part and continuation of basic architectural production.

Goodwin's historian background transforms his work from a dry architectural book, reflecting the relationships of color, volume, and emotion that forms and aesthetics entered into with the political processes of the period. Without departing from scientific integrity, he moves from architecture to history and from history to architecture, defining history within architecture and explaining architecture within the dimension of history. As you read, you understand how much Goodwin loves our history and culture. Such a magnificent book could not have been written without loving history, without loving Turkey, without loving architecture...