ARTH 278 Islamic Art, Architecture, and Visual Culture
An exploration of art, architecture, and visual culture created within the context of Muslim-majority or Muslim-ruled societies within Western Asia, North Africa, and Europe from the 7th to the 21st centuries. Covers sacred and secular architecture and architectural decoration, sculpture, painting, manuscripts, textiles, and metalwork, including objects in Los Angeles area collections. The course also considers theoretical framings of the field, such as what is “Islamic” about Islamic art. We will also consider the circulation of Islamic art globally and the emergence of modern Islamic art, as well as the visual cultures of protest in contemporary Muslim-majority countries. Readings will include primary sources, exhibition catalogs, and scholarly articles; visits to museums and a mosque is anticipated. By the end of the course, students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the diversity of Muslim arts historically and geographically.
Cross Listed Courses
RELS 278
Core Requirements Met
- Global Connections
- Pre-1800
- Fine Arts