Talk & Book Launch: Islamesque by Diana Darke

On November 28, 2024, acclaimed author and historian Diana Darke presented her latest book, Islamesque, at Yunus Emre Institute London. Guided by architect and academic Shahed Saleem, the event delved into the profound connections between Islamic and Western architectural traditions, drawing an engaged audience of scholars, architects, and cultural connoisseurs.

Darke opened her presentation by delving into the fascinating origins of Romanesque architecture, a style traditionally credited to Christian Europe’s clergy and patrons. Drawing on research from Islamesque, she argued that many of Europe’s finest medieval structures, such as Mont Saint-Michel, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and Durham Cathedral, bear the hallmarks of advanced Islamic craftsmanship. Through compelling examples, she demonstrated how techniques developed in Islamic Spain, Sicily, and North Africa—rooted in a deep understanding of geometry and intricate ornamentation—shaped the defining features of Romanesque design. Her insights challenged the conventional narrative, presenting Romanesque as a style profoundly influenced by the Islamic world, one that deserves recognition as “Islamesque.”

In the second part of her talk, Darke focused on the human networks that facilitated this remarkable cultural exchange. She shed light on the skilled Muslim masons, carpenters, and sculptors whose expertise flowed into Europe during a time when Christendom lacked comparable knowledge. From the migration of artisans to the translation of architectural treatises, she revealed how these exchanges fostered a shared architectural legacy. By rooting her analysis in historical evidence, Darke dismantled Eurocentric assumptions and emphasized the interconnectedness of medieval architectural traditions. Her nuanced storytelling offered a fresh understanding of Romanesque architecture as a product of cultural dialogue, rather than isolated innovation.

The discussion, enriched by Shahed Saleem’s thoughtful moderation, transitioned into an engaging Q&A session. Audience members posed questions about the political implications of architectural borrowing, the role of colonialism, and the continued relevance of these exchanges in contemporary design.

The evening concluded with a book signing, providing a fitting end to an event that highlighted the intricate connections between cultures in architectural history. Diana Darke’s meticulously researched insights and engaging narrative shed new light on the shared influences of Islamic and Western design, offering a deeper appreciation for the enduring exchange of ideas across centuries.