Malay Silver and Gold
Courtly Splendour from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and Thailand
Format:Hardback
Publisher:River Books
Published:23rd Apr '24
Should be back in stock very soon
This book offers an in-depth study of Malay silver and gold, revealing the artistry and cultural significance behind these exquisite artifacts.
The book Malay Silver and Gold presents a groundbreaking exploration into the exquisite world of Malay silver and gold artifacts. With hundreds of stunning photographs and extensive research, it serves as a vital resource for collectors, curators, and anyone interested in the rich heritage of Southeast Asia. This comprehensive study not only catalogs previously unpublished items from private collections but also delves into the cultural significance of these artifacts, highlighting their connection to the Malay people and their history.
In Malay Silver and Gold, the author Michael Backman uncovers the intricate relationship between the craftsmanship of Malay artisans and the broader historical context of their creations. The book emphasizes the importance of chronology and production locations, leading to a deeper understanding of the evolution of these art forms across the region. Notably, it identifies exquisite gold filigree pieces as being of Malay origin, challenging previous assumptions about their provenance.
Moreover, this publication addresses the impact of colonialism and 19th-century collecting practices on contemporary perceptions of Malay gold and silver. By weaving together a narrative that encompasses princely regalia, jewelry, and ceremonial items, Malay Silver and Gold not only celebrates the artistry of these materials but also restores the Malays to their rightful place in the history of commerce and material culture within the Islamic world.
"Malay Silver and Gold is the first book on this topic to have been published in over a hundred years. Rightly, it restores the Malays to the very centre of the commercial history and material culture setting of their region whilst placing them in the broader context of the 'Islamic world'. With its hundreds of beautiful photographs and outstanding research, it is a magnificent and eye-opening contribution that tells not only the story of the silver and gold items fashioned by Malay artisans but the Malay peoples themselves.'" - Seif El Rashidi, Islamic scholar, author & Director, Barakat Trust
"This groundbreaking new book is the first study of Malay silver and gold to take chronology and place production into serious consideration, leading to a much more nuanced understanding of developments across Southeast Asia. The exciting findings include the identification as Malay of certain exquisite gold filigree pieces held in August collections worldwide.'" - Annabel Teh Gallop, Head, Southeast Asia Department, British Library
"At last, here is an excellent publication that does full justice to the scope and beauty of Malay silver and gold. Michael Backman describes and illustrates the full range of Malay silver and gold work with superlative photographs. A great contribution to a very important, but hitherto not well understood Southeast Asia craft!'" - Sylvia Fraser-Lu, Author
ISBN: 9786164510777
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: 1448g
296 pages