What are Islamic geometric patterns used for?

What are Islamic geometric patterns used for?

For centuries, Islamic geometrical patterns (IGPs) have been used as decorative elements on walls, ceilings, doors, domes, and minarets. However, the absence of guidelines and codes on the application of these ornaments often leads to inappropriate use in terms of time scale accuracy and architectural style matching.

How does Islamic architecture differ from other architecture?

Islamic architecture had 3 different styles – Indian style, Eastern Tradition – it was a blend of Persian and Mesopotamian style and the Greco-Roman Tradition. Indian Style of architecture focused on swastika, chakra, Padam, auspicious art, and human beings. Islamic Style focused on Calligraphy and Geometrical designs.

Why is Islamic architecture symmetrical?

Symmetry is created in Islamic geometric design through the repetition and mirroring of one or more basic design units—usually shapes such as circles and polygons. Although the design can be elaborated and made complex, the basic symmetrical repetition and mirroring of these shapes creates a sense of harmony.

How is geometry used in Islamic architecture?

Geometry is an unseen presence in Islamic art and architecture. It is the visual means by which human mind can comprehend the order and harmony inherent in the Creation. It is the visual representation of the mathematical patterns found everywhere in man, nature, and cosmos.

What are some examples of geometric patterns in Islamic art?

Geometric patterns occur in a variety of forms in Islamic art and architecture including kilim carpets, Persian girih and Moroccan zellige tilework, muqarnas decorative vaulting, jali pierced stone screens, ceramics, leather, stained glass, woodwork, and metalwork.

What is the significance of patterns in Islam?

In Islamic culture, the patterns are believed to be the bridge to the spiritual realm, the instrument to purify the mind and the soul. David Wade states that “Much of the art of Islam, whether in architecture, ceramics, textiles or books, is the art of decoration – which is to say, of transformation.”

What are the characteristics of Islamic architecture?

The arch is surrounded with arabesques; to either side is a band of Islamic calligraphy, above colourful geometric zellige tilework with 8-point stars. Islamic decoration, which tends to avoid using figurative images, makes frequent use of geometric patterns which have developed over the centuries.

What are the different types of Islamic art?

Several artforms in different parts of the Islamic world make use of geometric patterns. These include ceramics, girih strapwork, jali pierced stone screens, kilim rugs, leather, metalwork, muqarnas vaulting, shakaba stained glass, woodwork, and zellige tiling.

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