Course Description
Summary
Despite the widespread but erroneous assumption that Islam prohibits images, figurative representations have been abundantly produced in Islamic societies since the early years of Islam. With a particular focus on painting and the art of the book, this course will examine the central place of images in Islamic cultures from the early modern period to the present. While images initially illustrated historical, religious, or literary themes, they also came to be perceived as powerful instruments by which to navigate contemporary contexts. The lectures will address themes central to the study of Islamic art, including courtly patronage; the relationship between word and image; calligraphy; aniconism; and artistic transmission. No previous background is required. All readings are available in English.
