Islamic Art History is a field of study that focuses on the visual arts and architecture created in the Islamic world. It covers a vast geographical area, spanning from Spain to India, and includes all time periods from the 7th century, when Islam was founded, to present day.
The art produced during this period is incredibly diverse and reflects the cultural influences of various regions, as well as the changing political environment over time. For example, one can see the influence of Persian art in Islamic art from Iran, while Indian Islamic art is heavily influenced by Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
The main genres of Islamic art include calligraphy, architecture, painting, pottery and decorative arts such as metalwork and textiles. Calligraphy is an especially important form of Islamic art as it was used to reproduce passages from the Qur’an.
Architecture
Islamic architecture is renowned for its intricate geometric patterns and its use of domes. Some well-known examples include mosques such as the Great Mosque of Damascus and Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.
Additionally, many palaces were built in this style during this period, such as the Alhambra Palace in Spain.
Painting
Islamic painting typically features abstract or floral motifs with intricate detail. These paintings often served religious purposes or were used for decorative purposes in buildings such as mosques. One notable example is The Ardabil Carpet, a large Persian carpet believed to have been made for the shrine of Shaykh Safi al-Din Ardabili in Iran.
Pottery
Pottery has been an important part of Islamic culture since ancient times. Common shapes included plates and jars decorated with geometric patterns or calligraphic inscriptions. Traditional pottery techniques were also adapted to create new forms such as lusterware dishes.
Decorative Arts
Decorative arts played an important role in Islamic culture during this period, with metalwork being especially popular. Examples include intricately decorated weapons such as swords and daggers, jewelry set with precious stones, tableware made from silver or brass, and so on.
Conclusion: What Is Islamic Art History?
Islamic Art History covers a wide range of artistic styles created across a vast geographical area over many centuries – from calligraphy to architecture to painting to pottery to decorative arts – reflecting both regional influences and changing political environments throughout this period.