Islamic art is considered a true reflection of Islamic civilization, as it expressed its religious, intellectual, and social values across different eras. Art in Islamic civilization was not merely a means of decoration, but rather a civilizational language that embodied the identity of the الأمة and its worldview.
Islamic Art and the Religious Dimension
Islamic art emerged from the doctrine of monotheism, which profoundly influenced its aesthetic orientations. Muslim artists avoided depicting the Divine Essence and instead turned to ornamentation and Arabic calligraphy as means of expressing spiritual beauty. Arabic calligraphy held a special status, as it was used to write Qur’anic verses and decorate mosques and manuscripts, combining art with sanctity.
Art and Islamic Society
Islamic art reflected the daily life and values of Islamic society, appearing in architecture, applied arts, and manuscripts. Palaces, mosques, and schools were adorned with patterns and ornaments, indicating the society’s concern for beauty, order, and harmony, without excess or unnecessary complexity.
Civilizational Influences
Islamic art was influenced by the civilizations with which Muslims interacted, such as the Persian and Byzantine civilizations. However, it was not merely an imitation; rather, it reinterpreted their elements within a distinctive Islamic framework. The expansion of the Islamic state contributed to the diversity of artistic styles, while maintaining a unified identity.
The Development of Islamic Art Across the Ages
Islamic art witnessed remarkable development across different eras. It flourished during the Umayyad period in the field of architecture, advanced during the Abbasid period in decorative arts and manuscripts, and reached the height of creativity during the Andalusian, Ottoman, and Mamluk periods. These stages reflected the strength of Islamic civilization and its interaction with time and place.
Conclusion
Islamic art represents a mirror that reflects the greatness of Islamic civilization and its cultural and spiritual richness. Through its aesthetic elements and profound symbols, it succeeded in conveying Islamic values to the world, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to testify to the creativity of the Muslim الإنسان throughout history....Almustaqbal University, The First University in Iraq
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