LibGuides: Islamic Art: Media

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Islamic Art (32:13) Forbidden by Islamic law to represent the human form, Moslem art burst forth in the characteristic decorative style we know as arabesque. This program discusses the architecture and sculpture of mosques and Koranic schools, the illumination and calligraphy of sacred texts, music, the art of the garden, and the influence of the abstract arabesque on Western art.
Islamic Art at the V&A (50:49) London’s Victoria and Albert Museum contains one of the finest collections of Islamic art in Europe or America. It is housed in the V&A’s recently constructed Jameel Gallery—a facility designed to increase awareness and appreciation of Islamic art. This program highlights the beauty and complexity of the Jameel collection; it also enables viewers to closely examine individual pieces—including the Ardabil Carpet from 16th-century Iran, one of the largest and finest carpets in existence, and an exquisite rock crystal ewer from 11th-century Egypt. Many other examples of ceramics, textiles, metalwork, manuscripts, and architectural elements are featured.
Paradise Found: Discovering Islamic Art Series In this two-part series, renowned art commentator Waldemar Januszczak makes an epic journey of discovery across the Muslim world, revealing awe-inspiring architecture and art objects that evoke the history of Islam. Along the way he meets local historians and experts—as well as an array of weavers, calligraphers, potters, and jewelers—who contribute their knowledge of this fascinating art-historical field. The result is a stimulating introduction to a set of globally significant aesthetic traditions. 2-part series, 45-60 minutes each.
Tales from the Museum of Islamic Art (53:35) The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, Qatar, is filled with greatest treasures of the Islamic world. This film tells the stories behind some of the museum's most remarkable items, including Jahan's Jade Pendant and Shah to Al-Sufi's Book of Fixed Stars. The colorful history of the trade routes of great empires is explored with our elderly Arab narrator and storyteller. Viewers will explore this treasure chest and the history of this fascinating culture.