The origin of the art of illumination
The Art of Illumination
The word illumination means “to gild” or “to decorate”. However, this definition only reflects its surface. This art, which reached its peak in the Ottoman Empire, is the name of writing and decorating the writing, making the writing even more beautiful with gold and colors. Illumination, which has a special place in Turkish art, especially covers the decorations made on the edges, beginning and end pages of handwritten books.
History and Origin
Illumination has developed in many civilizations under the influence of Islamic art. The sacredness and beauty of writing in the Islamic world and the respect for writing paved the way for the emergence of this art. However, illumination experienced its brightest period during the Ottoman period. During this period, the art of illumination was used not only to decorate books, but also to decorate documents, decrees and government documents.
Features
Illumination sometimes includes animal figures as well as geometric and vegetal motifs. However, these figures are usually stylized and abstract. Some themes frequently encountered in motifs are: palmette, hatayi, rumi, saz leaves and various flower formations.
Gold is indispensable for the art of illumination. However, this gold is applied in a special ink form prepared using natural gold dust. This gives the work an appearance decorated with both a valuable material and shine and sparkle.
The Importance of Illumination Art
Illumination is one of the rare arts where writing and art come together and become integrated. Especially when used together with calligraphy, the aesthetic value of the work increases exponentially. This represents a harmony where writing and art complement each other and even glorify each other.
As a result, illumination art is a field with historical, cultural and aesthetic value. This art, which both satisfies visual pleasure and carries deep spiritual meanings, is an important part of Turkish and Islamic culture. Today, it is of great importance to keep this traditional art alive and pass it on to new generations.
Materials Used in Illumination Art
The materials used in the execution of illumination art are important elements that determine the originality and value of this art.
Gold Dust: Even the name of the art of illumination is based on this precious metal. Gold dust is used by mixing it with a special adhesive. The unique shine that gold gives during application reveals the sparkle of the work.
Coloring Materials: Plant-based dyes, minerals and in some cases animal-based substances are used for coloring.
Brushes: Special brushes are used for fine details. The bristles of these brushes are usually made of cat or squirrel hair.
Ahar: Used to reduce the absorbency of the paper and ensure that the gold adheres better.
Mıh: A thin and pointed tool used when making illumination. It is used to draw patterns on gold gilding.
Illumination Education and Contemporary Applications
Today, the art of illumination is being passed on to new generations with traditional learning methods. There are various institutions, workshops and courses for those who want to learn this art. In addition, illumination education is given in the Fine Arts Faculties of universities, and there are master’s and doctoral programs in this field.
Contemporary applications of the art of illumination appear in many areas with the meeting of traditional motifs with modern design. It is possible to see traces of the art of illumination in a wide range from wall decorations to fashion designs, from home decoration to accessories.
Illumination is not only an art of decoration, but also an endeavor that requires meditation, patience and meticulousness. For this reason, illumination works are valuable not only as a visual feast, but also as a reflection of the artist’s spirit, labor and time. Today, the preservation and dissemination of this traditional art play a major role in transferring the richness of our culture to future generations.
Global Reflections of Illumination Art
Despite being a traditional Turkish and Islamic art, illumination has also been met with great interest in the international arena. The aesthetic and spiritual depth of this art has influenced many art lovers all over the world.
International Exhibitions and Events: Illumination art has frequently taken place in international art fairs, exhibitions and events. These events have played a major role in the promotion of illumination art worldwide. Many countries have invited masters from Turkey to discover and learn the richness of this traditional art.
Education and Workshops: With the global interest in the art of illumination, workshops and courses providing illumination training have been organized in many countries around the world. These workshops have brought together local artists and Turkish masters, allowing for an intercultural art exchange.
Collectors and Museums: Works of illumination art are in many private collections and museums around the world. Museums that promote Islamic art in particular have dedicated a special place to illumination collections.
Illumination in Modern Design: Illumination is not just a tradition
It has been a source of inspiration not only in classical forms but also in modern design products. Modern interpretations of illumination motifs are frequently encountered, especially in the fields of fashion, accessories and home decoration.
The Future of Illumination Art
Today, with the rise of technology and digital art, it is expected that illumination art will also modernize and appear in different forms. Digital illumination, combined with 3D printing technology, can expand the boundaries of this traditional art.
However, above all, the spiritual depth, aesthetic value and historical richness that lie at the heart of illumination art will ensure that it is valuable and special in every period. The interest of new generations in this art and their determination to keep it alive show that the future of illumination art is bright.
It was connected to Kademisi. The establishment of the Eastern Decorative Arts School was directly upon the instructions of President Atatürk.
References
- ^ “Archived copy”. Archived from the original on 2 August 2009. Retrieved 29 June 2009.
- ^ Şule Aksoy. “Turkish Baroque Rococo Style in Book Decorations”. Ministry of Culture Art Magazine, Issue: 6, June 1977, p. 131.
External links
- Illumination-Examples
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