Mehmet Zeki Kuşoğlu graduated from the State College of Applied Fine Arts in Turkey, and in 1964, he received a state grant, with which he went to Germany for postgraduate studies. He became interested in Turkish, Islamic, and Eastern art while conducting research in the museums and libraries in Germany and other European countries. He held exhibitions, published articles and books, gave seminars, and made more than 100 presentations at national and international conferences.

Beautifully and richly illustrated, this introduction and handbook to the decorative art and crafts of the Ottoman civilization is based upon the many articles by Kusoglu, who is an artist, educator, and researcher in his own right. The 28 topics or chapters range from a description of artistic techniques, such as niello, engraving, embossing, filigree, and beading, to personal and everyday objects that utilize these methods, including door knockers, belts and rings, various talismans and body ornaments, prayer beads, and even Ottoman visiting cards. The colorful and intriguing illustrations provide outstanding examples of the various techniques and objects discussed. This work, which includes items and terminology that might be unfamiliar to Western artists, will make readers feel as though they have just gone through an exhibition of these magnificent artifacts. VERDICT Enthusiasts of Eastern civilizations should not hesitate to purchase. This excellent book should also be found in both academic and public library collections for its educational value in learning more about Eastern traditional arts. —Stephen Allan Patrick, Jonesborough, TN