Chapter 1: Symbolism in Early Civilizations
In ancient times, decorations were used to adorn temples and tombs, and they represented the religious and cultural beliefs of different civilizations. Each civilization used decoration as a means of expressing its spiritual identity and symbolism.
1. Ancient Egyptian Civilization
- Spiritual Connection: In ancient Egypt, decorations represented the relationship between humans and gods, focusing on the afterlife and the spiritual world.
2. Roman Civilization
- Daily Life and Warfare: In Rome, decorations depicted daily life, scenes of war, and military victories, reflecting the social and political reality of life.
3. Byzantine Art
- Religious Symbolism: In Byzantium, decorations focused on Christian symbols and religious rituals, serving as a means to embody Christian faith and beliefs.
Chapter 2: The Influence of Islam, Sharia Boundaries, and the Creativity of the Muslim Artist
1. The Influence of Previous Civilizations on Islamic Art
- Byzantine and Persian Influence: Islamic art was influenced by the art forms prevalent in civilizations such as the Byzantine and Persian, but these influences were adjusted to align with Islamic law.
2. Sharia Boundaries in Art
- Prohibition of Depicting Souls and Spirits: Islamic law imposed boundaries on the depiction of souls, spirits, and the portrayal of God and supernatural beings.
3. The Creativity of the Muslim Artist
- Geometric Patterns and Abstract Plant Forms: Instead of figurative depictions, the Muslim artist created complex geometric patterns and abstract plant forms.
- Use of Diverse Materials: The Muslim artist used materials such as plaster, wood, iron, and clay to develop decorations and architecture.
- Spiritual Balance and Aesthetic Beauty: These materials helped create designs that reflect spiritual beauty and balance in nature while maintaining artistic harmony within the boundaries of Sharia.
Chapter 3: Al-Andalus: A Melting Pot of Cultures and the Creativity of the Muslim Artist in Zellige
Al-Andalus was a center where civilizations and cultures met, blending Byzantine, Roman, Persian, and Islamic influences, which resulted in a unique fusion that enriched Islamic arts, including decoration.
1. The Muslim Artist and Creative Decoration in Al-Andalus
- Use of Geometric Patterns: The Muslim artist excelled in using geometric patterns as small interlocking units, intricately arranged to form a cohesive artwork.
- Difference from Previous Arts: Islamic art introduced a new vision, dividing the design into small repeating units that interlock to form a complete decorative system, contrasting with pre-Islamic art where the final shape was drawn as a single piece.
2. The Role of Metals and Materials in Decoration
- Metals in Dyeing: Metals such as cobalt and copper contributed to giving bright colors to decorative patterns, enhancing the beauty and final form of the decorative unit.
Chapter 4: Zellige in Morocco: Evolution and Complexity
After the fall of Al-Andalus, the art of zellige moved to Morocco, becoming a symbol of Moroccan identity and one of the most prominent arts that influenced local architecture. It began in Marrakech and then spread to Fes, where distinctive schools emerged reflecting the character of each city.
1. The Evolution of Moroccan Zellige
Over time, zellige evolved to reflect the political system and state organization, with innovative patterns introduced that represented the complexities of governance. Zellige became an art form that mirrored the state’s development and its variations over time.
2. Patterns and Symbolism: The Matriarchs of Decoration
- The Twelve-System: Represents the ruler and the branches of ministries, leaders, and soldiers.
- The Twenty-Four and Fifty-Systems: Reflects more complex stages in governance.
- The Seventy-System: The most recent system, reflecting modern political systems and their complexities.
These systems are considered the matriarchs of decorations in each time period, symbolizing the development and complexity of governance.
3. Continuous Creativity within Boundaries
Despite the boundaries imposed by Islamic law on depicting souls and living creatures, Moroccan artisans excelled in developing interlocking geometric patterns, making zellige an art form that spans multiple historical stages.
4. Zellige and the Moroccan Royal Throne
Zellige remained a symbol of the Moroccan royal throne and is considered an essential part of Morocco’s cultural and artistic identity. The intricate and majestic decorations associated with zellige reflect the royal power and the social structure of the state.
Chapter 5: Global Moroccan Zellige
1. The Influence of Global Civilizations on Zellige
Moroccan zellige has been influenced by contemporary civilizations, incorporating new styles while maintaining its traditional character, allowing it to keep pace with modern architectural and aesthetic changes.
2. Global Influence of Zellige
Moroccan zellige has become in high demand worldwide, with Moroccan zellige products being among the key exports to various parts of the world due to its diversity and unique beauty.