How to Recognise Islamic Art

This document provides an overview of Islamic art and its spread throughout various regions over centuries.

It began with the prophet Muhammad in the 7th century and spread across the Middle East, North Africa, Spain and India through conquest and conversion. Islamic societies assimilated political and artistic styles from diverse cultures, resulting in an international art influenced by many simultaneous powers. Common architectural elements included open, non-focal decorated designs. Islamic art also featured ceramics, metalwork, glass, woodwork, textiles, book illuminations and more.