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 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 being made and exhibited.
Illumination art, especially during the Ottoman period, was used in many areas such as various manuscripts, calligraphy panels and book covers. Today, there are various courses and training programs for teaching and keeping this traditional art alive.
To provide more information about 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 illumination art 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 fields 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.
