Aims

At the end of the course, the student will be able :
to characterize each of the great periods and areas of Islamic art ;
to identify the techniques, iconographical repertoires and forms of decoration and architecture in their respective specific features and evolution ;
to perceive the elements coming from the Islamic countries in the different forms of non-Islamic art.

Main themes

To give a general introduction on the different aspects of Islamic art.

Content and teaching methods

Contents : Presentation of the most significant monuments of the great art periods in Islamicised countries from the point of view of context, shapes, techniques and functions of the architecture and its decoration (the Umayyad Near East ; the Abbassid Middle East ; Egypt, North Africa and Spain from the Umayyads to the Fatimids ; Seljukid Persia to Asia Minor ; art in the Ottoman empire). Products of the main "decorative arts" - ceramics, glasswork and analogous techniques, metalwork, fabrics, carpets and miniatures - will be analysed.

Methods : Lectures are based on a practical use of maps and slide-projections of the context and details of each monument and work of art commented upon, conceived as a common observation and discovery. The studied monument and works of art will be chosen for their exemplary character and the diversity of art forms they represent. Emphasis will vary from one period, area and technique to another, according also to current exhibitions or study trips. Recent discoveries, results and trends in research are pointed out.

Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

An introduction to the history of art and its technical vocabulary is required.

Assessment by final oral examination ; the student will benefit from a preparation time.

The students receive a series of copies of maps and reproductions of works, of chronological surveys, commented map and bibliography ... Organization of visits to collections of Islamic art.

Other credits in programs