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.
How does the Great Mosque of Isfahan relate to Islamic architectural traditions?
It embodies the hypostyle hall plan, minarets, and calligraphy characteristic of Islamic mosques, while also integrating diverse stylistic influences from various empires.
How does the Folio from a Qur'an relate to the tradition of Islamic calligraphy?
It exemplifies the high artistic value placed on calligraphy in Islamic culture, using the Kufic script and geometric motifs to honor the divine word.
How does the Ardabil Carpet reflect Persian artistic traditions?
It demonstrates the intricate designs, vibrant colors, and symbolic motifs characteristic of Persian carpets, reflecting the region's rich textile heritage.
How does 'Bahram Gur Fights the Karg' relate to the tradition of manuscript illumination?
It shares stylistic similarities with European illuminated manuscripts but incorporates Persian mythology and Chinese landscape elements, showcasing cultural exchange.