Trained in art history at Harvard and now at Rice U. in Texas, Hamadeh presents a revised version of her dissertation in this detailed examination of the art, architecture, poetry, and culture of 18th-century Ottoman Istanbul. The traditional assumptions about the period are examined, and fountains and other aspects of pleasure gardens in particular are described at length, with discussion of their creation and use. The volume, which is oversize (9x10.5"), is heavily illustrated with b&w photos of the monuments discussed, as well as engravings and other period images. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)