Geometric Patterns in Islamic Art

Seljuk Lines-Anatolian Seljuk Geometric Compositions Book Description The knowledge compiled and presented by Dr. Mustafa Bulut under the title “Seljuk Lines” represents a rich example among the initiatives undertaken in this field to date. Following an “Introduction” section that outlines the boundaries and approach of the subject, the topic, illustrated through different materials and techniques such as stone, brick, wood, tile, and plaster, is then examined in terms of a typological classification based on the styles of joining and connecting the shapes. The rich inventory, accompanied by 763 drawings from a total of 177 architectural works, is supported by a sufficient number of sources, bringing it quite close to reliable and definitive conclusions. The most appealing aspect of the book is how a non-pictorial style from a cross-section of Seljuk art is treated as such a compelling puzzle. We strongly recommend reading the “Conclusion” section of this research, which provides solid data for art historians, artists, and practitioners. - Selçuk Mülayim - The splendor of patterns, the most famous visual expression form of Islamic art and architecture, is not a beauty formed by coincidence. The ancient masters of this art used traditional measurement methods to create magnificent geometric compositions, often based on a single repeating pattern. The results are marvelous in their beauty and inspiring in their application. With the contribution of this book, everyone can now learn how to become a master in this ancient art and design their own intricate patterns or recreate classic examples. All you need is a pencil, a ruler, a compass, and a steady hand. The book first provides practical basic information on how to draw a square, hexagon, or pentagon, along with technical tips. How these patterns are created is shown with careful, step-by-step instructions at three difficulty levels. The patterns in the book are selected from the following nineteen works, which are among the finest examples of Islamic art and architecture: • Great Mosque of Córdoba, Spain • Great Mosque of Kairouan, Tunisia • Mustansiriya Madrasa in Baghdad, Iraq • Eşrefoğlu Mosque in Beyşehir, Turkey • Palatine Chapel, Italy • Mushaf of Rashid al-Din al-Tabib, Iran • Shrine of Sheikh Abd al-Samad, Iran • Umayyad Mosque of Damascus, Syria • Great Mosque of Herat, Afghanistan • Alhambra, Spain • Kharraqan Eastern Tower, Iran • Mahperi Hunat Hatun Complex in Kayseri, Turkey • Mosque of al-Salih Tala'i, Egypt • Ben Youssef Madrasa, Morocco • Mausoleum of Jalal al-Din Hussein, Kyrgyzstan • Mosque of al-Nasir Muhammad, Egypt • Mamluk Mushaf, Syria • Tomb of Bibi Jawindi, Pakistan • Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, Morocco