AP Art History : Understanding terminology that describes 2D art in global Islamic traditions

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP Art History

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Example Questions

Example Question #2 : Analyzing The Form Of 2 D Visual Art

What form of art was developed by Islamic artists who did not draw living figures because of proscriptions in the Quran?

Possible Answers:

Painting

Sculpture

Calligraphy

Architecture

Landscaping

Correct answer:

Calligraphy

Explanation:

The Quran, the Islamic holy book, made Muslim artists pursue calligraphy for two different but related reasons. Calligraphy was the easiest mode of transmission for the written Quran in the early years of the religion. Additionally, Quranic prohibitions on creating figurative art made many Muslim artists pursue the geometrical and literary art of calligraphy.

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