Which materials and crafts were considered major arts in Islamic societies?

In Islamic societies, the visual arts were defined by a diverse range of materials and crafts, often shaped by religious traditions that favored intricate surface decoration and the use of calligraphy over the representation of human or animal forms.12

Major Arts and Crafts

• Calligraphy: Considered a central feature of Islamic artistic tradition, calligraphy was elevated to a high art form. It was used not only on traditional materials like parchment, papyrus, and paper but also as a decorative element on buildings and portable objects.23
• Ceramics and Tilework: Pottery was a primary medium, with significant innovations such as lustre glazing, which provided a metallic, shiny finish. Ceramic tiles and mosaics were essential for architectural decoration, covering floors, walls, and domes with complex geometric and floral patterns.41
• Textiles and Carpets: Textiles were highly valued, and carpets became a supreme artistic achievement. These often featured elaborate designs, including arabesques and, despite religious restrictions, sometimes incorporated animal and human figures.51
• Metalwork: Artisans worked with bronze and brass to create functional items like basins, lamps, and candlesticks. Techniques such as damascening—inlaying silver or gold into other metals—were highly developed.26
• Other Crafts: Ivory carving was a notable craft, particularly in Spain, while glass production remained an important, though less well-preserved, medium.4