Coffee is a staple across the globe as a warm beverage to start the morning or the perfect pairing with dessert. In Saudi Arabia, coffee is a symbol. A symbol of hospitality, a symbol of national pride, and a symbol of time-honored traditions. Grown mainly in the southwest of the country, coffee beans are carefully tended, harvested, and roasted according to methods particular to each region, which provides a variety of flavors and aromas. The methods of serving coffee in Saudi Arabia have a long history and must be faithfully respected to ensure the appropriate welcome to guests. Hospitality is an important tradition in the Kingdom and is always accompanied with a cup of coffee.Saudi Coffee: The Culture of Hospitality examines the region’s coffee, from seedling to refreshment. Original photography by Oliver Pilcher and illustrations by Rafael Alterio are supplemented by images by Ibrahim Sarhan, Mohammed Albaijan and Dhafer Alshehri. Created in collaboration with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ministry of Culture, this title is the latest addition to the Saudi Arabia series, inviting readers to experience the many wonders of the nation.
A WORD FROM THE FOUNDERSWe created this company to be the first luxury brand on culture. We wanted to supply everything for a contemporary library; we started working with top perfumers for scented candles, with Goyard for a book trunk, with Chanel on a quilted leather slipcase, and so on. Now we are expanding the Assouline lifestyle brand in stores in the most important cities of the world. We love and believe in books more than everything else, but we also want to extend our vision to create all that can be expected in a chic and personalized library, from beautiful books and special editions to luxury gift items, unique library accessories, and now a complete turnkey collection of stylish furniture. Our digital world goes faster than ever and nothing remains of it, but books are the solid part of our past and present. They also are beauty. For us, books are a matter of intellect and emotion, of heritage and innovation. Because information is not only about today, and the past is a sensational source of inspiration.-Prosper & Martine AssoulineTHE BRANDFounded in Paris in 1994 by Prosper and Martine Assouline, Assouline is the first luxury brand on culture. It began with the desire to create a new, contemporary style of book, using the couple's experienced eye for visually rich stories and compelling narratives.Guided by their passion for knowledge, culture and travel, the Assoulines have since expanded their vision to 1,700 titles in three main collections, along with special editions and unique library accessories—a grand oeuvre of inspiring creations. Throughout the last quarter of a century, the brand has established a network of international boutiques in prominent locations across the globe. Assouline has also inaugurated a curated library service, working closely with clients to visualize, design, and develop bespoke, one-of-a-kind libraries.With a distinguished team of creative talents—which includes the founders' son Alexandre—the brand continues to reinvent the notion of true luxury. Assouline’s roster of collaborators includes some of the world’s most respected brands, artists, photographers, writers and designers.Assouline continues to exude an unparalleled signature style and elegant savoir faire, which has globally redefined modern publishing.