The early period of geometric shapes in mosques pictured vegetal and floral patterns. Let’s view some of the historical mosques and their geometric patterns, 3 Periods of Geometric Patterns in Mosques Early Period – Up to ~900 AD Great Mosque of Kairouan, Tunisia Source: “ Geometric Proportions: The UnderlyingStructure of Design Process for Islamic Geometric Patterns“ Source: “Geometric Proportions: The Underlying Structure of Design Process for Islamic Geometric Patterns“ The below graphics depict the basic construction of these geometric designs: As time moves forward, the geometric patterns expanded to include 10-point shapes, such has decagons, 10-point stars and the 10-fold rosettes, and even to 16-point geometric shapes. The research article “ Evolution of Islamic Geometric Patterns” notes that the deliberate use of circular design “emphasizes One God and the role of Mecca.” Other common geometric construction designs found in early mosques include the six-point, such as hexagons and 6-point stars, and eight-point designs, such as octagons, 8-point stars, and the 8-fold rosette. While viewing the images below, notice the widespread use of circles. Note that this is a slice of Islam’s rich history and the use of patterns in Islamic religious decoration. We only focus on three periods of the evolution of Islamic geometric design. Dabbour, geometry “represents an expression of the order of the universe as a visual representation of the truth.” According to this research article written by Loai M. The patterns’ purpose is to not copy nature but to reflect what nature’s represents. The geometric patterns found in mosques are stunningly beautiful and intricate. Mosques, however, do not include figural representations because Muslims believe that the creation of living things is unique to God, and they don’t want to encourage idolatry. Churches, for example, often showcase paintings, stained glass art, and sculptures of religious figures such as Jesus, Mother Mary, and the saints. When you compare the art found in mosques to churches, you’ll notice some key differences. I geeked out on the following resources to refresh my knowledge on Islamic art – The Met, the History of Art course on HOWU, tourism sites and scholarly articles. This week’s education feature dives into the beautiful geometric patterns in historic mosques.
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