Islamic Geometric Design

Islamic geometric designs are admired worldwide for their beauty and marvellous intricacy, yet in truth they are seldom understood. Indeed, their complexity and artistry can seem almost beyond the powers of human ingenuity. In this handsomely illustrated volume, artist and teacher Eric Broug analyses and explains these complex designs in their historical and physical context. His own original drawings accompany magnificent photographs of mosques, madrasas, palaces and tombs from the Islamic world, ranging from North Africa to Iran and Uzbekistan, and from the 8th to the 19th centuries. Chapters are devoted to each of the main families' of geometric design - fourfold, fivefold and sixfold - and to the complexcombined' patterns. Every design is carefully explained, and illustrated with a wealth of stunning photographs and clear, meticulously detailed drawings. Readers can follow the design processes by which these patterns were created and even learn to reproduce and invent geometric patterns for themselves, using exactly the same tools as the Islamic craftsmen of old: a ruler and a pair of compasses.

“"Uniquely comprehensive. . . . Clearly written so that a total understanding of the material is possible for specialist and novice alike."”

A rich collection. An exemplary and detailed practitioner account of Islamic pattern design. . . . the lush photographic images are accompanied by visualized formal analysis that gives the patterns conceptual depth. . . . Highly recommended. An extremely effective and thorough work on the geometric designs found throughout Islamic art and architecture and the process by which these designs were created. . . . Well written, well-thought-out, and extremely well-illustrated. Enthusiastically recommended. This visually stunning look conveys the beauty and complexity of Islamic patterns . . . A hybrid of coffee-table, informational, and how-to book. Uniquely comprehensive. . . . Clearly written so that a total understanding of the material is possible for specialist and novice alike.

Eric Broug received his master's degree in the History of Islamic Art & Architecture from the School of Oriental and African Studies, London. He now runs Broug Ateliers for Islamic Architecture, Arts, and Crafts, which creates contemporary Islamic art.

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