Geometric Decoration
|
Geometric Decoration and the Art of the Book
‘Geometric patterns were gradually replaced by floral decoration, which was considered to be more refined.’
The first medium for religious manuscripts was parchment, which was progressively replaced by paper for reasons of convenience and economy.
Equally, geometric patterns were gradually replaced by floral decoration, which was considered to be more refined. Geometric motifs, such as the ones used in the frame, became secondary elements. Calligraphy was used for decoration, especially 'squared' kufic script which was written in all different directions. |
Kufic Qur'an manuscript
Hegira 3rd century / AD 9th century Abbasid
Islamic Museum, al-Aqsa Mosque / al-Haram al-Sharif
Jerusalem
Each hizb (one-sixtieth of the Qur'an) is decorated at the beginning and at one-half, one-quarter and one-eighth of the way through, with roses or medallions, both geometric and floral, in the margins of the page.
|
/ Download