Illumination, especially in Ottoman and Islamic art, describes gold and colored paint decorations made on paper and leather. This art form was used to decorate manuscripts and create a visual feast. If we take a chronological look at the history of illumination art:
- Early Periods (7th – 9th Century)
- From the birth of Islamic art, some decorations began to be seen, especially on Quran manuscripts.
- During the Abbasid period, the decoration of manuscripts became more common in Baghdad.
- Seljuk Period (10th – 13th Century)
- Illumination art became widespread in Anatolia during the Seljuk period.
- Geometric and stylized plant motifs came to the fore in Seljuk works.
- Pre-Ottoman Anatolian Principalities (13th – 15th Century)
- Both the Seljuk influence continued in the illumination art of the period and new elements were added.
- Motifs and decorations became more detailed and elaborate.
- Ottoman Period (15th – 20th Century)
- In the 15th century, with the encouragement of Fatih Sultan Mehmet, there was a great revival in the art of illumination, as in many other branches of art.
- The 16th century is considered the peak of Ottoman illumination art. During this period, European influences began to appear in addition to traditional motifs.
- In the 17th and 18th centuries, some changes occurred under Western influence. Although the illumination art of this period was sometimes criticized, it was a period when original works were made.
- Although there was a decline in illumination art towards the end of the 19th century, various attempts were made to preserve and keep the art alive.
- Republic Period (20th Century – Present)
- With the declaration of the Republic, interest in traditional arts increased again.
- Today, both traditional and modern illumination works are made and exhibited.
The art of illumination was used in many areas, especially in the Ottoman period, such as various manuscripts, calligraphy panels and book covers. Today, there are various courses and training programs for the teaching and preservation of this traditional art.
To provide more information on the chronological continuation of the art of illumination and how this art has evolved in the modern age:
- Modern and Contemporary Period (Late 20th Century – Present)
- From the late 20th century onwards, the integration of traditional arts into modern life and their presentation with new interpretations has gained popularity. Illumination has also been affected by this movement.
- Illumination has gone beyond traditional boundaries by combining with modern design elements. For example, it is possible to see illumination influences in contemporary paintings, textile products and even architecture.
- Art schools, university departments and courses where the art of illumination is taught have encouraged this art to be combined with modern techniques and gain new interpretations.
- Contemporary artists have brought this traditional art together with modern audiences by using illumination motifs and techniques in modern areas such as digital art and graphic design.
- In the international arena, exhibitions, workshops and art festivals were organized to promote the art of illumination and have it appreciated by a global audience.
Illumination Art
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 writing, making 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
In addition to geometric and plant motifs, illumination sometimes includes animal figures. However, these figures are usually stylized and abstracted. Some themes frequently encountered in motifs are: palmette, hatayi, rumi, saz leaves and various flower formations.
Gold is indispensable for illumination art. 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 in which 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 in which writing and art complement 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 also It is of great importance to keep this traditional art alive and pass it on to the next 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 illumination art is based on this precious metal. Gold dust is used by mixing it with a special adhesive. The unique shine given by the gold during application reveals the sparkle of the work.
Color 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: Thin and pointed tool used during illumination. Used to draw patterns on the gold gilding.
Illumination Education and Contemporary Applications
Today, the art of illumination is passed on to the next 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 provided in the Fine Arts Faculties of universities, and there are master’s and doctoral programs in this field.
Contemporary applications of illumination art appear in many areas with the meeting of traditional motifs with modern design. It is possible to see traces of illumination art in a wide range from wall decorations to fashion designs, from home decoration to accessories.
Final Word
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 illumination art, workshops and courses providing illumination training have been organized in many countries of 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 reserved a special place for illumination collections.
Illumination in Modern Design: Illumination has been a source of inspiration not only in traditional forms but also in modern design products. Modern interpretations of illumination motifs are frequently encountered, especially in 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 remains 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.
