Analytical Study Animal Motifs on The Glassware Egypt Fatimids

The Fatimids dynasty was Ismaili Shiite who related themselves to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Fatimids Caliphate originated in Tunisia and ended in Egypt. The history of this period cannot be ignored in the formation of art industries such as glassware art. The aim of the present study is to identify some animal species and the function of these motifs in the Fatimids Glassware. Therefore, the present study seeks to answer two questions. A. What are the animal species used in Fatimids glassware decoration? B: What is the function of animal motifs on the glassware of this period? This study has been conducted in a historical method with a descriptive-analytical approach and with reference to library resources. The results show that the animal species performed on the Fatimid glass include birds, aquatic animals, quadruped and mythical creatures that have been performed on the works due to not only their aesthetic aspect but also their symbolic aspect. These motifs are associated with special meanings and concepts rooted in the cultural beliefs of this period, which is manifested in animal motifs and is also reminiscent of the goddesses and family symbol of the Fatimids. The motifs are often seen in a consecutive trajectory around the works, sometimes the animal motifs are performed alone or in combination with calligraphy, geometric and plant motifs by engraving, molding and coloring.