Islamic Geometry Essay

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Eda Zallak ARCH-252-04 Daniel Sherer Spring 2012 Islamic Geometry and Form in Architecture; Then and Now Geometric patterns make up one of the three nonfigural types of decoration in Islamic art. It is either isolated or used in combination with nonfigural ornamentation or abstract figural representation. Geometric patterns in Islamic art are used mainly due to their aniconic quality. These abstract designs not only adorn the surfaces of monumental Islamic architecture but also function as the major decorative element on a vast array of objects of all types. The patterns never overpower the architecture of a building, it always remains true to the building and enhances its atmosphere and effect. The simple geometric shapes used largely include; stars, crosses, hexagons, squares, rectangles and abstract plant forms. Such simple forms as the circle and the square, geometric patterns were combined, duplicated, interlaced, and arranged in intricate combinations, thus becoming one of the most distinguishing features of Islamic art. The four basic shapes, or "repeat units," from which the more complicated patterns are constructed are: circles and interlaced circles; squares or four-sided polygons; the ubiquitous star pattern, ultimately derived from squares and triangles inscribed in a circle; and multisided polygons. Ordered repetition, radiating structures, and rhythmic, metric patterns is key to Islamic motifs. This is now called fractal geometry. Other significant features used as motifs include columns, piers and arches, organized and interwoven with alternating sequences of niches and colonnettes. And after the Haghia Sophia the dome became a key point in the geometry of the buildings. The dome was deemed the ultimate curve and ode to grandeur and perfection. The Selimiye Camii is a

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