---
title: "Islamic Art — AP Art History Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Islamic art is art shaped by Islamic culture (c. 300-1600 CE), known for calligraphy, geometric and vegetal design, and mosques. Tested in AP Units 3 and 7."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-art-history/key-terms/islamic-art"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Art History"
---

# Islamic Art — AP Art History Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Islamic art refers to visual arts produced by Muslim artists from diverse regions influenced by Islamic culture. It encompasses various forms such as calligraphy, architecture, ceramics, textiles, and more.

## Related Study Guides

- [3.4 Purpose and Audience in Early European and Colonial American Art](/ap-art-history/unit-3/purpose-audience-early-european-colonial-american-art/study-guide/1aapzHbXB6wwkGvPwKxF)
- [7.2 West Asia](/ap-art-history/unit-7/purpose-audience-west-central-asian-art/study-guide/eJTwH6bHHWDw1pBlaKFH)
- [3.1 Cultural Contexts of Early European and Colonial American Art](/ap-art-history/unit-3/cultural-contexts-early-european-colonial-american-art/study-guide/f5oWN0Q1NfHcZR15A1u6)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Mihrab](/ap-art-history/key-terms/mihrab): A niche in a mosque indicating the direction of Mecca for prayer.
- Arabesque: An ornamental design featuring intertwined floral motifs often found in Islamic architecture.
- Illuminated manuscript: Handwritten books decorated with intricate designs and gold leaf popular during medieval times.