Islamic art

Atauriques

Ardabil Carpet

Brooklyn Museum - Hunters at a Stream - Riza `Abbasi

Courtyard of the Süleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey 004

Khamseh Nizami 001

Islamic art encompasses the visual arts produced from the 7th century onwards by people who lived within the territory that was inhabited by or ruled by culturally Islamic populations. It is a very broad term, and is distinguished not only by its geographical and chronological spread but by its inclusion of a range of artistic fields including architecture, calligraphy, painting, and textile arts such as carpets and embroidery. Islamic art is not art of a specific religion, time, place, or of a single medium like painting. Instead, it spans over some 1400 years, covering many lands and populations.

Islamic art is also characterized by certain themes and styles that were prevalent in the Islamic world. The use of geometric patterns, calligraphy, and arabesques in art pieces are significant, reflecting the Islamic cultural values and the restrictions in the Islamic religion on the depiction of living forms. Calligraphy is considered the quintessential art form of Islamic art because the Qur'an is written in Arabic, and thus, the written word holds a high place in Islam.

Architecture

One of the most notable forms of Islamic art is architecture, which includes some of the world's most famous buildings. Islamic architecture is characterized by its use of arches, domes, and minarets, and an emphasis on interior spaces. The Great Mosque of Córdoba in Spain, the Taj Mahal in India, and the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem are prime examples of Islamic architecture.

Calligraphy

Calligraphy is a highly regarded art form used to transmit texts, especially the Qur'an. Islamic calligraphy can be found on a wide variety of mediums, including manuscripts, buildings, coins, and textiles. This art form emphasizes the beauty of the written word, and it is used to convey messages of faith, poetry, and philosophy.

Textiles

Islamic textiles include a wide range of fabrics, from silks to cottons, and are known for their intricate designs and craftsmanship. Carpets, in particular, are an important art form within Islamic culture, with Persian carpets being among the most renowned.

Ceramics and Glass

Islamic art also includes significant contributions to ceramics and glass. The use of intricate designs and the development of techniques such as lustre painting on ceramics are notable. Islamic glassware, similarly, is known for its beauty and intricate craftsmanship.

Metalwork

Islamic metalwork is another important aspect of Islamic art, with objects ranging from beautifully crafted jewelry to detailed inlaid metalwork objects. The use of precious metals and intricate designs is common in Islamic metalwork.

Painting

While less common due to the Islamic prohibition against the depiction of living beings, painting and illustration were practiced in the Islamic world, particularly in the context of miniature paintings in manuscripts. These works often featured scenes from the Qur'an, historical events, or scientific discoveries.

Influence

Islamic art has not only been influential within the Islamic world but has also had a significant impact on the art of other cultures, particularly in terms of its geometric patterns and use of color. The influence of Islamic art can be seen in the Renaissance art of Europe, in particular, through the transmission of knowledge and techniques during the Crusades and through the Moorish occupation of Spain.

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