Quranic Inscriptions in Art and Architecture

Throughout history, Quranic inscriptions have been of interest to researchers in art and architecture. This is evidenced by the profusion and diversity of works in these fields. “Inscriptions in Art and Architecture” by Sheila Blair and Jonathan Bloom takes an important step toward demonstration of the importance of the Quran in religious structures. In this article, some scholars in the field are introduced and their works examined. Additional concerns include examination of receptacles of Quranic inscriptions (e.g. coins and earthenware), criteria used by designers and builders (such as space utilized for creating a work), faith and beliefs, and role and function of verses (compatibility with the venue in question) as well as social, cultural and political conditions. The present paper provides a short report of “Inscriptions in Art and Architecture” along with complementary points and critiques of, for example, secular architecture.