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632
The Kaaba
This is a pilgrimage draped in silk and cotton veil, it is the holiest shrine is Islam. Today the mosque covers about 40 acres of land. The beauty of religion can be seen as hundreds of Muslims gather around this pilgrimage and pray. They gather around the Kaaba and hope to kiss the black stone embedded into the eastern corner of the Kaaba. It is fascinating to see the gathering of people with a similar religion all in one place on such a large scale. -
950
Folio from a Qur'an
This is from the beginning of theSurat Al-'Ankabut. The manuscript is written in brown ink and is read from right to left. However the title of each sura is written in gold ink. I find it interesting that Islam's were unable to use animals and figures in art so instead they used vegetal and geometric designs. Vines were used in place of these figures. -
1340
Basin
This was used to baptize the royal children of France but it originally comes from Egypt. It was created by slave warriors that became known craftsman. It is filled with decorative pattering. I find that the fact that animals are carved instead of calligraphy. It is completely covered by figures and animals. It is brass and I find that this is important because it shows the unique artistry and craftsman's work that may have differed from tradition. -
1522
The Court of Gayumars
This is from the book of kings. This is showing the highlighted interest in manuscripts being the central to the arts. I find this interesting because each figure or event is significantly different from one another. It was assumed that animal and human figures were forbidden in Islam which is interesting because they are evident in this page of manuscript. -
1540
The Ardabil Carpet
This is one of the oldest Islamic carpets in the world and largest as well. The sheer size of this carpet is what I find fascinating as well as the intricate designs. The carpet was also made for a shrine and played next to a similar rug inside the shrine. It is interesting how Islamic art and verses can be out into something most find to be a mundane object but it is one of the most amazing pieces of art.
