Arabesque refers to a carved design in the form of geometrical or floral scrolls, as well as the form of mythological characters, humans and animals, usually framed in a rectangular form. Arabesque is used by art historians to describe the elements in the decorations of two phases alone: in the Islamic art and the European art.
Arabesque (Islamic Art): From the 9th century and onwards. The Islamic arabesque is a developed version of Byzantine and Late Antique scroll decorations. There’s an emphasis on leafy forms and vines in the designs.
Arabesque (European Art): From Renaissance and onwards. In European art, arabesque refers to a decorative motif consisting of flowing and organic forms which don’t cross each other. It’s a simple form of the Arabesque in Islamic art. (Mi)
Arabesque in European Art: The “Tellus Panel” from the Ara Pacis, Rome, c. 27 A.D.
Arabesque in Islamic Art: Part of a 15th century ceramic panel from Samarkandwith white calligraphy on a blue arabesque background.
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