Fragmentary Qur'an (Fol. 8 verso / book image source)

This is an illuminated copy of the Koran, Islam's sacred text, which contains revelations recited by the prophet Muhammad (died 632) to the people of Mecca and Medina. Because figurative art is not used in an Islamic religious context, this manuscript relies largely on the decorative properties of Arabic writing for its aesthetic effect.

Islamic texts such as this, and other objects with Arabic script, were admired in Europe for their distinctiveness and beautiful design. Artisans were inspired to create similar calligraphic patterns on glassware and ceramics. Other Islamic designs that were copied in the West include: knot work, scales, arabesques, medallions, dots, and commalike forms. The portability of many works of art, such as this book, facilitated this influence, as these objects could be carried from the Near East to Northern Africa, Spain, and Italy.