This
book sets out to explore the cultural heritage of this little-studied
region. The chapters follow the caravan routes across the desert,
stopping to celebrate local traditions such as the extraordinary wall
paintings of the women of Mauritania; the colorful markets of the
Moroccan oasis towns; the exquisite illuminated manuscripts, lovingly
copied by generations of scribes and scholars; and the raw earth mosques
of Niger, decorated with elaborate carvings that have survived centuries
of exposure to elements.
Illustrated
with vibrant color throughout, this book is an extraordinary photographic
record of the sumptuous colors of the desert and the rich artistic
heritage of those who live there.
