Exhibition: The Arts of the Book - Muslim and Christian Manuscripts

The exhibition will feature examples of Ottoman Islamic paper marbling art drawn into dialogue with medieval Christian manuscripts in the unique space of the Parker Library, the leading centre for medieval Anglo-Saxon manuscripts in the United Kingdom. Rarely opened to the general public, this exhibition will offer attendees the opportunity to revel in wonder at the vast collection of Christian Anglo-Saxon manuscript art and reflect on similarities and differences with ebru, the Turkish tradition of paper marbling.

The dialogue remains attentive to historical and religious difference. Islamic calligraphy, Ottoman ebru and Christian illumination arise from distinct traditions and are not presented as equivalent. Instead, the display considers particular questions that can be explored across them: the relationship between word and ornament, the visual treatment of sacred and authoritative texts, the role of skilled craftsmanship and the organisation of the page.

Ebru artwork by Professor Ahmet Sacit Açıkgözoğlu.

Suitable for ages: 12+ years. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

Accessibility: Tours are not suitable for wheelchairs users. Participants must be able to walk 25 steps of uneven stairs. This tour is not suitable for young children; we are unable to allow pushchairs or prams on the tours.Please note that photography for publicity purposes might take place at any event organised in the Parker Library.

Supported by the Yunus Emre Enstitüsü

Access times:

Friday 20th November - Tour at 11:00

Monday 23rd November - Tour at 14:00

Thursday 26th November - open access from 10:00-12:00 and 14:00-16:00. No reservation needed.

Open for all, regardless of faith.

About the Yunus Emre Enstitüsü

Established in 2010, Yunus Emre Enstitüsü - London is the Republic of Türkiye’s official cultural institute, promoting Turkish language and culture worldwide through more than 90 centres abroad. The Institute delivers a structured programme of cultural events, exhibitions, and Turkish language courses, supporting cultural engagement between Türkiye and the United Kingdom. Through its educational and cultural activities, the Institute provides access to Türkiye’s artistic heritage and contemporary cultural production, serving a wide and diverse audience.

Address: 10 Maple Street London W1T 5HA

Telephone: + 44 20 7387 303

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.yeelondon.org.uk

Social Media Handle: @yeelondra

About The Cambridge Festival of Islamic Arts

The Cambridge Festival of Islamic Arts runs from 19 to 29 November 2026, bringing performances, exhibitions, lectures, and workshops to Cambridge's historic colleges, museums, and cultural spaces. Open to everyone, the festival celebrates the beauty and diversity of Islamic arts, and, fifty years on from the landmark 1976 World of Islam Festival, carries that spirit into our own time. Find out more at cfia.co.uk.