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| Colour not necessary. Hussan II Mosque, Casablanca |
Islamic religion is fundamental to Islamic art. To a large extent, art and craft making
centred around the mosque and supported its embellishment. Religious principles forbade image-making in religious (but not
necessarily secular*) art. Artists
therefore developed designs based on Arabic script, geometry and plant
forms. Designs were elaborate, heavily
ornate and flowing. Strong colours and
use of inlaid metals, which added jewel-like highlights, further enriched these
designs. The Arabic mastery of pattern was, and still is, unrivalled.
* Hence human figures and animals are seen in, for example, Mughal (Indian) miniatures.
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| Carpet in Chefchaouen Kasbah Museum |
Aside from the distinct architecture of the mosque, artists
and craftsmen applied themselves to ornamentation, and along the way mastered
technical skills. Carpets, glazed tiles, ceramics, textiles, metalwork, woodwork,
glass, plaster, bookbinding and illustration became typical platforms for non-representational
pattern. Of particular note is Islamic calligraphy, used in inventive ways to transcribe a verse from the Qu'ran or perhaps poetry. Like Sufi music, the artist or those viewing the art, are inpired and led closer to their faith.
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| Tiles & Mosaics. Who could stop at just one in Fes? |
Islamic pattern is influenced by many countries so it
is worth noting the specific Berber influence on designs produced in Morocco. Tiles, carpets and ceramics are noteworthy for being bold and colourful.
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| Ceramics. On the wall in Meknes |
Slightly sidetracked but I think it is always worth knowing the history and tradition behind the present day offering of fabulous Moroccon pattern and design...
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| Eye Candy. Bahia Palace of Brilliance |
