Co-convenor, Arts of the Islamic World module
SOAS-Alphawood Postgraduate Diploma in Asian Art
Books, bindings and bibliophilia in the Islamic World
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Key information
Key information
- Duration
- 23 - 26 February 2026
- Location
- SOAS, Russell Square
Course overview
This in-person course will introduce participants to the field of codicology of manuscripts copied in the Near East, North Africa, and Central Asia, primarily in Arabic and Persian.
Throughout the course, we will discuss the use of different writing surfaces, inks, pigments, illuminations, various styles of bindings, and palaeographical aspects worth considering when examining a manuscript. The lectures are also accompanied by visits to the British Library and the Victoria and Albert Museum, which hold large collections of manuscripts and bindings relevant to the course.
Providing an overview of the field, the course is designed for students interested in the materiality of the manuscript rather than its content. Although some aspects of palaeography are discussed, knowledge of Arabic or Persian is not a requirement.
This course is convened by Ms Chiara de Nicolais (co-convenor of the Arts of the Islamic World module of the SOAS-Alphawood Postgraduate Diploma in Asian Art, which runs 4 May - 22 July 2026).
Structure
The course runs Monday to Thursday, typically starting at 10:00am and finishing before 5:00pm. Lectures will take place in SOAS’ Russell Square, London campus, with external visits to the British Library and V&A included.
Course Schedule: Books, Bindings, and Bibliophilia in the Islamic World
PDF document, 84.30KB
Fees and funding
The registration fee is £635.
Capacity for this course is strictly limited and places are confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis. Please refer to our registration terms and conditions before booking your space.
Enquiries
- Email: asianart@soas.ac.uk
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7898 4445
