Bookends (6 x 8 in) With A Woodburned Medieval Mamluk Arabesque Design; Medieval Islamic Art; Egypt; Cairo; Historian Gift; History Teacher

Technique: pyrography
Size: 6 x 8 in. (base); 6 x 9 in. (side); (6 x 6) center piece
Stain: Ipswich pine
Finish: Polyurethane

These lovely bookends were designed by a PhD who loves her books and gives them the opulence they deserve. Each custom 8 x 9 (base and side) bookend is ornamented with a 6 x 6 woodburned 13th - 14th century Mamluk arabesque design with entwined vines and palmettes. The original art from which our design is from was a carved ivory panel made in Egypt which was intricately carved with this complex design. The original ivory panel was most likely part of a larger wooden work like a door, wall, minbar, or Quran stand - all decorative surfaces which in the Middle Ages often used arabesque designs to enhance their beauty. The Mamluks were a dynasty of slave kings who ruled Egypt and parts of Syria between 1250 - 1517. The arabesque designs that they have left behind on the surfaces of architectural buildings and works of art are some of the most beautiful productions of the medieval period. The design on these bookends which still resonate the beauty produced in that time period demonstrate that idea.

The set of these bookends is a perfect gift for a historian, bibliophile, teacher, or academic. They will instantly bring beauty and sophistication to any desk top or shelf in your home or office. These bookends are available for order and the 6 x 6 woodburned pieces in their center can be replaced with other designs from our store. Let us make you something beautiful and bring a little piece of history into your home.