When Westerners think of a genie; the first image that comes to mind may be Barbara Eden in her pink harem pants or the illuminated blue buffoon from the animated Disney film Aladdin. But to the people of the Arab and Islamic worlds; the picture is dramatically different. Legends of the Fire Spirits looks beyond Westernized caricatures to immerse the reader in the vibrant lore of the jinn—the wondrous; often troublesome; and sometimes terrifying spirit beings of ancient Arab and Islamic tradition. Robert Lebling delves into long-lost accounts; medieval histories; colonial records; anthropologist’s reports; and traveler’s tales to explore the origin and evolution of legends that continue to thrive in the Middle East and beyond. He cuts through centuries of Orientalists’ cultural presumption to craft a study that stands apart from the overwhelming body of literature concerned with religion in the Middle East.A captivating synthesis of history and folklore; this is the most diverse collection of jinn lore ever assembled in one volume. From ancient scriptures to The Arabian Nights and beyond; and with a foreword by acclaimed filmmaker Tahir Shah; Lebling has constructed a comprehensive account that not only transcends geographical borders but also spans some four millennia.
#1021321 in Books 2016-04-15Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 10.00 x .50 x 10.00l; #File Name: 1580072364192 pages
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Painting Aviation legends : The stories and art behind each of the paintings by the celebrated aviation artist Mike MachatBy Jean-louis DelezenneJust received the book !!!!Long awaited work from my absolute favorite aviation Artist Mike Machat. I have followed Mike's work for well over a quarter of a century and have been always very impressed by the quality of the work. The book gives a great inside of the work and the diversity of subject matters covered by Mike's art and also the stories told by the people for each painting.The book also brings to mind the amount of research that comes before each of the painting is made. Light at a specific time of day / season; specific livery . markings worn by such aircraft on such day ( and these can change from a day to another).For the fans of Mike Machat's art; many of the paintings will be known but the book also features many private commissions or murals including the making of the said murals that this aviation fan had not seen to date. A real treat. The Concorde fans will also find a nice chapter with 2 private commission paintings. The stories related to the flight brought back some excellent memories !The book would be the best present to any aviation historian; Aviation lover or transportation art lover.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. A truly excellent book; not just because of the wonderful paintings ...By Peter H. BrothersA truly excellent book; not just because of the wonderful paintings (of which there are many; beautifully reproduced); but the text; which is full of warm-hearted; moving; fascinating anecdotes. Machat met with many of the men behind the machines which were the subjects of his paintings and tells wonderful stories; detailing a personal connection with each of the plane's pilots. He also talks about his inspirations and gives credit to other artists who have inspired him.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Beautiful aviation art with the stories and personalities behind the paintingsBy Marvin G. GoldmanThis gorgeous book not only showcases the beautiful aviation art of noted American artist Mike Machat; it does much more. Machat tells the stories of some of the main personalities and aircraft in U.S. aviation history; both military and commercial; and how he transformed these aircraft into works of art. The book is also printed on fine quality paper; with excellent color reproduction. A great addition to your aviation or art library.
