by Laura Hageman

Created on: May 13, 2008   Last Updated: October 27, 2011

Islamic Art is based not only on a belief system but on a culture. It characterizes the art that was created during the Islamic rule. Islamic art is dynamic and visual, and an art form that has its own language. It began in the 7th century by those that were not necessarily Islamic but lived in the land inhabited by the Islamic population. There are several classifications of art that were used to make up  Islamic Art.

Calligraphy was used on materials such as pottery, metal work, glass, stone, and manuscripts. Calligraphy was one of the top ways in which Islamic artists expressed themselves. Geometric and vegetal patterns were used in many works of art. This was something used to show infinity, which represented God with His infinite power and life. Islamic architecture is evident in mosques, tombs, and palaces.

Figurative art was not used in decorating religious monuments. When you walk into a Cathedral you will see statues that represented the saints, Jesus, and Mary. Islamic beliefs never thought that was a good idea, and related it to idolizing, rather than praising one true God.

It was not considered respectful to draw pictures or have figures that represented the likes of prophets or various important figures of religion. Therefore, figurative art was not allowed, especially within a mosque. The only images ever used in history were a depiction of the Prophet Muhammad's face covered by a veil or a representation by fire.

Decorative art gave Islamic Art artistic expression. The materials used were mostly manuscripts, woven textiles and carpets, metalwork, wood and stone. Those who used decorative art to fill their homes wanted to surround themselves with beauty. Many Islamic people will use various styles of carpets golden furniture, and fancy chandeliers.

Islamic Art was influenced by royal patronage. This was evident in the architecture of mosques, as well as the use of decorations and furnishings inside.

The Islamic Art had an urban setting that was represented within pottery, carpeting, textiles and metalwork. This art represented the livelihood of the middle-class.

Calligraphy, architecture, paintings, and ceramics were all used to represent Islamic Art. You can still see this today in various places such as mosques and various home of Islamic people.

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