Islamic Art
Art made by people in Muslim cultures, often featuring geometric patterns, calligraphy, and plant designs.
What is it?
Islamic art is a broad style that includes art from many regions and periods where Islam was the main religion. It often avoids images of people or animals in religious contexts, instead using geometric patterns, arabesques (curving plant designs), and calligraphy. The Mamluk brass washbasin you saw is an example of Islamic art, with its intricate geometric and floral patterns in silver and gold inlay.
Why it matters
Islamic art is incredibly rich and varied. It shows the creativity and skill of artists across the Muslim world. Understanding Islamic art helps you appreciate a major part of world art history.
Where you've seen it
This list grows as you capture more Islamic artworks.