ARC478 The Decorative Arts of Islam (650–1650)

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course is a survey of the salient examples of decorative arts of Medieval Islam. Arts of the Book, calligraphy, metalwork, ceramics, textiles, ivory and woodcarving will be explored within their religious, political and socio-economic context, as well as in terms of meaning, function, aesthetics and emerging forms. Particular emphasis will be given to the regional design vocabulary and to the evolution of style, content and iconography. The course will also investigate the pivotal role of geometry, vegetable ornaments and epigraphy in Islamic design and the supremacy of color and pattern.

Prerequisite: ARC375 Introduction to Islamic Art.