islamic art and architexture

What is a common misconception about figural representation in Islamic Art?

It is a misconception that living beings cannot be depicted in Islamic Art. While mosques and the Quran typically avoid figural representation due to concerns about idolatry, figures can be found in other forms of Islamic art.

What does the Hadith say about artists creating living beings?

The Hadith (stories of the Prophet) warns artists with punishment on the Day of Judgment if they 'breathe life' into their creations, which contributes to the aniconic tendency in religious contexts.

Does Islamic art exclusively consist of religious art?

No, Islamic art is broader than just religious art and can include figural representations outside of religious texts and sacred spaces.

Describe the early Islamic coinage in the 7th century.

New Islamic coins were minted, initially resembling Byzantine coins, and featured the Shahada (official prayer).

What is significant about Qusayr Amra in Jordan?

Qusayr Amra, an 8th-century bathhouse near Amman, Jordan, features the oldest known domed representation of the constellations in Islamic art.

When and where was Prophet Muhammad born?

Prophet Muhammad was born in Mecca.

What is the significance of the year 622 in Islamic history?

The year 622 marks the Hijra (pilgrimage to Medina), which signifies the start of the Islamic calendar.

How did the Islamic Empire expand by the end of the 7th century?

By the end of the 7th century, the Islamic Empire stretched from Spain to Central Asia, led by Caliphs, notably the Umayyad dynasty.

Which dynasty succeeded the Umayyads?

The Abbasids took over from the Umayyads in 750.

What is the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem?

Built in the late 7th century, the Dome of the Rock is a shrine, not a mosque, and is holy to three religions.

How does the Dome of the Rock reflect diverse influences?

It draws inspiration from early Christian forms like Byzantine architecture (dome and mosaics), and its design helps establish Jerusalem as a pilgrimage destination, similar to the Ka'aba in Mecca.

Describe the decorative elements of the Dome of the Rock.

It features mosaics that depict the word of God and natural elements like plants. Blue tiles were a later Ottoman addition, while gold signifies religious importance.

What are the essential components of a mosque?

Essential components include: 1. A Minaret (tower for call to prayer). 2. An Ablutions fountain (Shadirwan) for ritual cleansing. 3. A covered prayer hall. 4. A Mimbar (pulpit for leading prayer). 5. A Qibla (direction facing Mecca).

What is a 'hypostyle' mosque?

A hypostyle mosque is an early mosque design characterized by many columns, inspired by how the Prophet's house in Medina was supported by trees.

What does 'aniconic tendency' mean in Islamic art?

The 'aniconic tendency' refers to the preference in some Islamic art and architecture to avoid or limit the depiction of figural or living beings, particularly in religious contexts.

Describe the construction of the Great Mosque of Damascus.

Commissioned in 706 and completed in 715, its construction was a significant undertaking, reportedly costing 7 years of state taxes.

Who created the mosaics for the Great Mosque of Damascus, and what do they depict?

Mosaicists from Constantinople created the mosaics, which often depict urban scenes with fertile soil and rivers, symbolizing a paradisiacal vision.

What are some distinctive architectural features of the Great Mosque of Damascus?

It features double-height arches, and its construction utilized mosaicists from Constantinople.

How were lamps used in Islamic contexts described?

Lamps were often metal, with verses of the Quran cut into them, or made of glass and enamelled.