All Flashcards
Compare the architectural influences on Petra with those on the Great Mosque of Isfahan.
Petra shows Greek, Egyptian, and Assyrian influences, while the Great Mosque reflects styles of Il-Khanate, Timurid, Safavid, and Qajar empires, showcasing different cultural exchanges.
Compare the function of the Kaaba with that of the Dome of the Rock.
The Kaaba serves as the Qibla and focal point of the Hajj, while the Dome of the Rock commemorates Muhammad's ascension and Abraham's near-sacrifice, serving different religious purposes.
Compare the 'Bahram Gur Fights the Karg' to European illuminated manuscripts.
Both share stylistic similarities like vibrant colors and detailed figures, but 'Bahram Gur' incorporates Chinese landscape elements and depicts Persian mythology, reflecting cultural fusion.
Compare the Court of Gayumars with the Folio from a Qur'an in terms of religious content.
The Court of Gayumars is not religious, depicting humans and animals in harmony with nature, while the Folio from a Qur'an contains sacred verses and geometric motifs, avoiding figural representation.
What is the Qibla wall?
The wall in a mosque that faces Mecca, indicating the direction of prayer for Muslims.
Define Hajj.
The annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam.
What does 'circumambulate' mean in the context of the Kaaba?
To walk around the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction during the Hajj.
Define Kiswah.
The black cloth that covers the Kaaba, adorned with gold and silver embroidery.
What is the meaning of Mi'raj?
Muhammad's ascension to Heaven, commemorated by the Dome of the Rock.
What is an Iwan?
A vaulted open space that serves as a gateway in Islamic architecture, like those found in the Great Mosque of Isfahan.
What is a Minaret?
A tall tower in a mosque from which the muezzin calls Muslims to prayer.
What is Kufic?
An early angular form of the Arabic alphabet used in important manuscripts like the Folio from a Qur'an.
Define Umma.
The whole community of Muslims bound together by ties of religion.
What was Petra's function during the Nabataean Kingdom?
Petra served as a trading city and a burial site, showcasing the kingdom's wealth and architectural prowess.
What is the significance of the Kaaba in Islam?
It is the holiest site in Islam, believed to have been built by Ibrahim and Ishmael, and serves as the Qibla for Muslims worldwide.
Why was the Dome of the Rock built?
It commemorates Muhammad's ascension to Heaven and Abraham's near-sacrifice of Isaac, and is a significant site for Abrahamic religions.
What historical influences are reflected in the Great Mosque of Isfahan?
The mosque reflects the styles of multiple empires and dynasties, including the Il-Khanate, Timurid, Safavid, and Qajar periods.
What does the Folio from a Qur'an reveal about Islamic art?
It exemplifies the importance of calligraphy and geometric motifs in Islamic art, as well as the high value placed on sacred texts.
What does the Baptistère de Saint Louis tell us about Mamluk culture?
It showcases the skill of Mamluk artists in metalworking and inlay, and depicts battle scenes reflecting the Mamluk-Ilkhanate Wars.
What is the context of 'Bahram Gur Fights the Karg'?
It is part of the Shanama (Book of Kings), illustrating the story of Bahram Gur's fight and showcasing him as an ideal king.
What is the significance of the Ardabil Carpet?
It exemplifies the flourishing arts, especially textiles, during the Safavid Empire and was used to decorate mosques and shrines.