Thomas Walker Arnold

Thomas Walker Arnold, born on April nineteenth, eighteen sixty-four, was a distinguished British orientalist and historian renowned for his contributions to the study of Islamic art. His academic journey led him to teach at the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College, which later became Aligarh Muslim University, as well as at Government College University in Lahore.

A close associate of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, Arnold was inspired to pen the influential work, The Preaching of Islam. His collaboration with Shibli Nomani at Aligarh further enriched his academic experience, allowing him to mentor notable figures such as Syed Sulaiman Nadvi and the celebrated poet-philosopher Muhammad Iqbal.

Arnold's scholarly impact extended beyond teaching; he served as the first English editor for the inaugural edition of The Encyclopaedia of Islam, a testament to his expertise and dedication to the field. His legacy continues to resonate in the realms of Islamic studies and art history.