In this archaeological analysis of the Ghurid dynasty, David Thomas provides a deeper understanding of this renowned Early Islamic polity.
Using archaeological fieldwork, detailed analysis of satellite images, and Google Earth, David Thomas reassesses the Ghrids and generates a more nuanced understanding of this early Islamic polity.
The iconic minaret of Jm stands in a remote mountain valley in central Afghanistan, the finest surviving monument of the enigmatic 12th-century Ghrid dynasty. The rediscovery of the minaret half a century ago prompted renewed interest in the Ghrids, and this has intensified since their summer capital at Jm became Afghanistan's first World Heritage site in 2002.
Two seasons of archaeological fieldwork at Jm, the detailed analysis of satellite images and the innovative use of Google Earth have resulted in a wealth of new information about known Ghrid sites, and the identification of hundreds of previously undocumented archaeological sites across Afghanistan.
Drawing inspiration from the Annales school and the concept of an 'archipelagic landscape', David Thomas has used this data to reassess the Ghrids and generate a more nuanced understanding of this significant Early Islamic polity.
“'This book is very well researched and draws on a wide range of sources, both written and archaeological, and does a great deal to place Ghurid studies into the historiographic continuum.' -- Richard McClary -- Plekos”
β β¦ this work of synthesis is quite significant, constructing an interdisciplinary image of GhΕ«rid urbanism at Jam as well as the broader material footprint of GhΕ«rid territorial politics through
multiple Afghan landscapes.β
David C. Thomas is an honorary associate in archaeology at La Trobe University.
The iconic minaret of Jam stands in a remote mountain valley in central Afghanistan, the finest surviving monument of the enigmatic 12th-century Ghurid dynasty. The rediscovery of the minaret half a century ago prompted renewed interest in the Ghurids, and this has intensified since their summer capital at Jam became Afghanistan's first World Heritage site in 2002. Two seasons of archaeological fieldwork at Jam, the detailed analysis of satellite images and the innovative use of Google Earth have resulted in a wealth of new information about known Ghurid sites, and the identification of hundreds of previously undocumented archaeological sites across Afghanistan. Drawing inspiration from the Annales school and the concept of an 'archipelagic landscape', David Thomas has used this data to reassess the Ghurids and generate a more nuanced understanding of this significant Early Islamic polity.
This item is eligible for simple returns within 30 days of delivery. Return shipping is the responsibility of the customer. See our returns policy for further details.
