Question bank: Islamic Art

Islamic art is vast and diverse, reflecting the rich history and diverse cultures of the Islamic world. In architecture, for example, we see the prohibition of figurative representation leading to the development of complex geometric patterns and the valorization of the written word as a decorative element. In the context of Mathematics, geometry is an essential tool for creating these repetitive patterns, known as arabesques. Considering a rectangular Islamic decorative panel measuring 2 meters in height by 3 meters in width, where a pattern starting from the bottom left corner, following a 45° line with the bottom side of the panel, and repeating symmetrically to fill the entire area is desired, what is the minimum number of times the complete pattern should repeat both in height and width to cover the entire surface of the panel, without the need for cuts or overlaps?

Islamic art is known for its rich expression of patterns and complex geometric forms, which often avoid the figurative representation of living beings due to Islam's interpretation of aniconism. However, this art developed a distinctive aesthetic vocabulary that extends across various forms of expression, including tapestry and jewelry. In his book 'The Story of Art,' the renowned art historian and critic Edward Lucie-Smith states: 'Islamic art, far from being an expression of denial, became a vehicle through which the divine creation could be celebrated, borrowing symbols and patterns from other cultures to enrich its own message.' Based on the historical-cultural context of Islamic art and Lucie-Smith's quote, analyze how Islamic aniconism influenced the creation of patterns and symbols that, in turn, reinforced the aesthetic identity of this art in different artistic manifestations.

Islamic art, rich in symbolism and geometry, reflects the fundamental principles of Islam, which discouraged the figurative representation of living beings and encouraged elaborate ornamentation. This art manifests itself in various forms, including architecture, calligraphy, ceramics, and weaving. In a thorough study of Islamic art, a group of researchers came across a tapestry from the 10th century that displayed a complex geometric composition. The tapestry has a pattern that repeats every 8.5 centimeters when aligned parallel to its edges. Considering only the geometric patterns of the tapestry and the knowledge that it does not have lateral or rotational mirroring, the researchers decided to investigate how many different non-overlapping shapes could be identified in the tapestry by overlapping a square of 8.5 centimeters on each side in any position. Based on this analysis, how many of these distinct shapes can be identified in a single repetition of the pattern on the tapestry?

Islamic art is rich in symbolism and expressions of faith, reflecting the beliefs and values of Muslim culture. In addition, its influences extend to various art forms, such as tapestry and jewelry. Considering the cultural and religious context in which Islamic art developed, discuss how the religious prohibitions present in Islam influenced the techniques and artistic motifs employed in one of the following art forms: architecture, calligraphy, or ceramics. Then, analyze how these influences can be observed in a second art form, chosen from the two not previously mentioned, justifying your choice based on concrete examples from Islamic art.

Islamic art is an artistic and cultural manifestation rich in details and strongly influenced by religious faith. Briefly explain the main characteristics of Islamic art and discuss how it represents Islamic faith and its influences on other artistic styles.