Final answer:
Islamic ornamentation distinguishes itself by focusing on geometric and vegetal motifs instead of human or animal figures, in line with beliefs surrounding the depiction of living beings. Geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy in Islamic art serve to symbolize the nature of God and are common in religious contexts, while classical art embraced naturalistic representations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The geometric patterning of Islamic ornament is fundamentally different from the figural ornamentation of the classical tradition. Islamic art typically focuses on the depiction of intricate patterns, such as the arabesque, and Arabic calligraphy. The use of geometric motifs, vegetal designs, and calligraphy is prevalent in Islamic art, as depictions of human and animal forms are generally avoided in religious contexts due to the belief in Islam that their representation can be a form of idolatry.
By contrast, classical art from traditions such as the Coptic, Sassanian, and Byzantine cultures included naturalistic depictions of human figures and animals. This diversity is evident in the early Islamic works, which were influenced by these older styles but evolved over time to predominantly feature non-figurative art in religious contexts. Geometric and vegetal patterns are often used to symbolize the transcendent and infinite nature of God, with artists sometimes intentionally introducing mistakes in repetitions as a sign of humility.
In terms of architecture, like the Grand Mosque of Kairouan, the various building types such as mosques, mausolea, gardens, and madrasas, are adorned with intricate geometric patterns, vegetal patterns, and calligraphy rather than figurative art. Secular Islamic contexts, such as palaces and manuscripts of poetry, might include figural imagery. Still, this is less common in the sacred decoration of mosques and religious manuscripts.