AP Art History : Identifying artists, works, or schools of 2D art in global Islamic traditions

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP Art History

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 :Identifying Artists, Works, Or Schools Of 2 D Art In Global Islamic Traditions

The earliest style of calligraphy used to copy the Koran is known as__________.

Possible Answers:

Shahadah

Hijazi

Kufic

Bismallah

Correct answer:

Kufic

Explanation:

Kufic calligraphy, easily identifiably by its blockier style, was the first form of calligraphy used by Muslims to transcribe the Koran in the seventh through ninth centuries. Although hardly used today, it is the basis for modern Arabic calligraphy, including those used for theShahadah, the key creed of Islam, and theBismillah, the invocation of God's name, which are common themes of Arabic calligraphy. Kufic led to the development of more "cursive" styles of calligraphy like Hijazi and Diwani.

Example Question #1 :2 D Art In Global Islamic Traditions

Bahram gur kills the wolf 1336.jpg blog

Based on style and composition, the work of art shown here was created in_________________.

Possible Answers:

Kashmir

Byzantium

Istanbul

Persia

Correct answer:

Persia

Explanation:

This work, known asBahram Gur Fights the Karg, is from an illustrated version of the great Persian epic poemShahnama. The text itself, in Persian script, is the most obviously Persian element, but the carefully composed miniature painting on paper in ink is also a significant feature of Persian art. Also, the image is of a human being, differing it from other Islamic art which traditionally forbade the depiction of human figures, a prohibition not as strictly followed in Persia.

Work is in the public domain, image accessed through Wikipedia Media Commons: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Demotte_Shahname_002.jpg

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