Islamic Antiques

In art, the term Islamic is used to describe the style of all those pieces produced from the 7^th Century onwards in territories where Islam was the dominant religion. This encompasses a huge number of artworks, and although there is not a single medium in which the style is dominant, the carpets, embroidery, glass, ceramics, metalwork and plaster work produced are remarkably characteristic in style and design.

Repeating elements in Islamic art are stylised and often include floral and vegetal designs, as well as more abstract geometrical patterns. These are repeated to create patterns in a style known as arabesque. Patterns and calligraphy are used in Islamic art to symbolise the infinite and transcendent nature of God. When colour is used, it is often in bright hues such as pure reds, blues, greens and yellows, which are combined to create rich oriental rugs, delicate glassware and spectacular ceramics.