aniconism

[an-ahy-kuh-niz-uhm]

aniconism Definition

the avoidance or prohibition of displaying images of sentient beings in Islamic art and culture.

Using aniconism: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "aniconism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  Aniconism is a prominent feature of Islamic art and architecture.

• Example

  The aniconic tradition in Islamic art has led to the development of intricate geometric patterns and calligraphy.

• Example

  The use of aniconism in Islamic art reflects the belief that only Allah can create living beings.

Phrases with aniconism

• aniconic representation

  the use of non-figurative or abstract forms to represent living beings in art

  Example

  The aniconic representation of animals in Islamic art is often achieved through the use of calligraphy and geometric patterns.

• aniconic mosque

  a mosque that does not contain any figurative representations of living beings

  Example

  The Great Mosque of Mecca is an example of an aniconic mosque.

• aniconic symbol

  a symbol that represents a living being without depicting its physical form

  Example

  The crescent moon is an aniconic symbol commonly associated with Islam.

Origins of aniconism

from Arabic 'anīyah', meaning 'without images'

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Summary: aniconism in Brief

'Aniconism' [an-ahy-kuh-niz-uhm] refers to the avoidance or prohibition of displaying images of sentient beings in Islamic art and culture. This practice has led to the development of intricate geometric patterns and calligraphy in Islamic art, as seen in the aniconic representation of animals. The Great Mosque of Mecca is an example of an aniconic mosque, and the crescent moon is an aniconic symbol commonly associated with Islam.