“Geometric Patterns from Islamic Art and Architecture” is not merely a book but a voyage across a splendid visual spectrum—a treasure trove for artists, designers, historians, and mathematicians alike.
Robert Field lays down a visual feast that taps into the essence of Islamic geometric patterns, those meticulous arrangements that breathe life into marble and stone. This book serves as a testament to the virtuosity of Islamic artists and craftsmen whose work, steeped in an interplay of science and spirituality, can transform humble buildings into canvases of metaphysical thought.
At first glance, what sets Field’s work apart is his enthusiastic and dedicated methodology. He has traced the footprints of beauty etched in the world’s most awe-inspiring mosques, collecting not just photographs, but stories woven in symmetrical perfection.
Geometric Patterns from Islamic Art and Architecture is an encyclopedia of patterns that pulls off a remarkable feat: it is as much a practical guide as it is an artful narrative. Readers will find themselves enticed by the structured tutorials that break down the elaborate mosaics into understandable steps.
Field reminds us that every swirl, every starburst, and every interlocking shape is more than a mere aesthetic—it’s a language. Each chapter eloquently talks us through the history and significance of patterns found in Islamic art and architecture. The illustrations serve as a bridge between past and present, illuminating the silent stories told by walls and ceilings through centuries.
The balance between technical instruction and historical context will appeal to a diverse audience. While enthusiasts of Islamic art will relish the rich depictions and cultural insights, students and professionals in geometry can marvel at the mathematical precision embodied in these designs. The book stands as a cross-disciplinary resource that eloquently binds art and numeral harmony.
Field is generous with his knowledge, providing readers with a ‘toolbox’ to create their renditions of the intricate patterns showcased. This book can inspire countless projects, giving insights into a world where creativity is bound by rules yet limitless in expressions.
“Geometric Patterns from Islamic Art and Architecture: And how to draw them” is a rare find—a book that educates, inspires, and connects dots across timelines and geographies. Whether you seek a visual delight, a challenge for your artistic skills, or enlightenment about a profound artistic heritage, Robert Field’s masterful compilation will surely exceed expectations.
