Islamic Art (c. 7th Century – Present)

Islamic Art (c. 7th Century – Present)

Definition & Background:
Islamic art emerged in the 7th century with the spread of Islam, developing a unique visual language that emphasized calligraphy, geometric patterns, arabesques, and architectural grandeur. Due to religious prohibitions against depicting human figures in religious contexts, Islamic artists focused on intricate ornamentation, manuscript illumination, and architecture. Key centers of Islamic art included the Umayyad, Abbasid, Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal empires.

Five Key Islamic Artists / Artworks:

  1. Ahmad ibn Muhammad al-Nasafi (9th Century CE)

    • Bio: One of the earliest known Islamic calligraphers, famous for his contributions to Kufic script, a fundamental style in early Islamic manuscripts and architecture.
    • Notable Works:
      • Quran Manuscripts in Kufic Script – Early Islamic calligraphy used in the decoration of mosques.
      • The Blue Quran – A rare manuscript written in gold on indigo-dyed parchment.

  2. Ibn al-Bawwab (c. 10th–11th Century CE)

    • Bio: A master calligrapher of the Abbasid period, credited with refining the Naskh script, which became one of the most readable forms of Arabic writing.
    • Notable Works:
      • Illuminated Quran Manuscripts – Elegant Naskh script texts decorated with gold and floral motifs.
      • Development of Proportional Script – Influencing later Arabic calligraphy traditions.

  3. Bihzad (c. 1450–1535 CE)

    • Bio: A Persian miniaturist of the Timurid and Safavid periods, Bihzad is renowned for his intricate manuscript illustrations that blended naturalism and Persian storytelling.
    • Notable Works:
      • Illustrations for the Khamsa of Nizami – Highly detailed scenes depicting Persian legends.
      • Miniatures for the Bustan of Saadi – Elegant and expressive courtly scenes.

  4. Mimar Sinan (c. 1489–1588 CE)

    • Bio: The chief architect of the Ottoman Empire, Sinan revolutionized mosque design, inspiring later Islamic architecture.
    • Notable Works:
      • Süleymaniye Mosque (Istanbul, Turkey) – A masterpiece of Ottoman grandeur and balance.
      • Selimiye Mosque (Edirne, Turkey) – Known for its impressive dome, considered his greatest achievement.

  5. Shah Jahan’s Imperial Architects (c. 17th Century CE)

    • Bio: The team of architects and artists under Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan created some of the most elaborate and iconic Islamic structures.
    • Notable Works:
      • Taj Mahal (Agra, India) – A monumental mausoleum blending Persian, Indian, and Islamic design.
      • Red Fort (Delhi, India) – An imposing palace complex featuring Mughal decorative elements.
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