Throughout history, art has been a powerful way of sharing and appreciating culture. Islamic art represents how art can travel worldwide and inspire other cultures, being recognized for its beauty, creativity, and influence. However, many do not realize how many artists and cultures were inspired by it and often overlook its significance. In this article, we will cover the vast impact of Islamic art on the world, not only by enhancing creative movements but also by connecting different civilizations and leaving a beautiful and significant mark on our history.
Islamic art has been around for hundreds of years, with the oldest found art dating back to 550 to 600 AD. Interestingly enough, a Quran manuscript is one of the oldest pieces of Islamic art. The manuscript, held by Birmingham University, has been scientifically estimated to have been created between 568 to 645 AD, making this not only one of the earliest Islamic artworks but also one of the first Quranic verses ever printed.1 For context, Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, lived between 570 to 632 AD.2
The Spread of Islamic Art Worldwide
After the Prophet’s death, peace and blessings be upon him, the Islamic empire saw significant growth starting with the Caliphs, the Umayyads, the Abbassids, the Ottomans, and many others.3 These empires were rich in culture and influence, particularly characterized by trade routes such as the Silk Road.4 Since the Islamic world was so connected with trade, Islamic art traveled all over the world. In addition to trading goods, Islamic empires manufactured their own products to ship across the globe. The Umayyads, for example, crafted many items such as textiles, Quranic manuscripts, perfumes, and detailed containers. The Abbasids also manufactured different things such as silk, glass, ceramics, ink, paper, and more.
Islamic art often encompasses certain characteristics that make it easy to distinguish. Since some Muslim scholars disagree with the practice of drawing figures, Islamic art usually revolves around geometrical patterns and calligraphic writing.3 The patterns and calligraphy are both elements found in many different forms of Islamic art, such as rugs, murals, and architecture.
Rugs that originate from the Middle Eastern region are popular worldwide, and it is easy to find a local store that sells them. They are recognized for their complex designs, full of patterns and bright colors. These rugs are and have been crafted in Muslim countries such as Turkiye, Iran, Afghanistan, Morocco, Egypt, and more.5 Oriental rugs are a perfect example of Islamic art taking traits from other cultures. Persia, now Iran, is famous for their beautiful handmade rugs. Upon the Rashidun Caliphate’s conquest of Persia, Persian culture and Islamic culture mingled, both taking inspiration from the other.4 Now, oriental rugs are not only crafted in Iran but also in other countries all over the world.
Calligraphy is the most recognized form of Islamic art. Islamic calligraphy is often centered around Quranic verses, and printed copies of the Quran are decorated with it, both on the cover and the pages inside. This type of art is not only limited to paper mediums, however. It decorates architectural pieces, rugs, and clothing. The Kiswa, a cloth that covers the Kaaba, consists of Islamic calligraphy, fully showing how valued and important this form of art is in the Muslim world.
Islamic art has left its mark in countries that are not currently considered Muslim countries. Spain, which was formerly ruled by Muslims for around 800 years, still holds many marvelous architectural masterpieces built by Muslim artists.6 One of these builds is the Alhambra in Granada. This massive fortress was built by Muslims, and the architecture combines geometric patterns and calligraphy, two signatures of Islamic art.6 Another piece of Islamic art in Spain is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, once a mosque, known for its large pillars and arches. Like the Alhambra, this cathedral contains the patterns and calligraphic elements that make it recognizable as a piece of Islamic art.
Islamic art has had a profound and lasting impact on civilizations across the globe. From its early manifestations in Quranic manuscripts to its intricate geometric patterns and calligraphy, Islamic art has provided a unique way of creative expression. Through trade, conquest, and cultural exchange, Islamic art has spread far beyond the Muslim world, inspiring cultures and mixing with others to create something new. The effect of Islamic art is seen everywhere, from the landmarks in Spain to the rugs from Persia. Its legacy cannot be understated and continues to be a door of inspiration that shapes the world’s artistic history and encourages contemporary artists today.
Sharing Islamic Art with Your Children
Parents can share Islamic art with their children by teaching them to appreciate the richness of it. Islamic art consists of patterns largely associated with shapes, so it can be a fun activity for a child to try and mimic it and create their own artwork. Many instances of Islamic art are overlooked. Search for it everywhere, in a mosque, an art gallery, or a museum. Learning about Islamic art can be a great source of inspiration, and will also help to appreciate the rich history of the Islamic world through its art.
End Notes
1 Birmingham Qur'an manuscript dated among the oldest in the world
2 The Prophet Muhammad and the Origins of Islam | The Metropolitan Museum of Art
3 Islamic Art – Art and Visual Culture: Prehistory to Renaissance
5 Regions of Origin of Oriental Rugs
Uthman Guadalupe is a Latino Muslim college student with a passion for history and art. He is an assistant Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach and freelance illustrator. He is fluent in Spanish and lives with his family in Maryland where he also enjoys playing video games and binging shows.
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