Jainism and Islam

Jainism O’ Riley, pp. 93-95 Fonder: Mahavira (“The Great Hero”) 599-527 BCE There are 24 tirthankaras, “Pathfiners.”; they are known as jinas, “visits” or “Heroes.” Goals: break out of the life cycle by living pure lives; hope to perfect their jiva, “soul,” or “high consciousness”

3.31 The Ascetic Gommata, Karnataka, 10th century (H: 18.29 m)

3.32 Jain Temple at Mount Abu, Rajasthan, 1031

Islamic Art and Architecture Islam religion 7th century Monotheistic religion Muhammad was the founder Mecca (Saudi Arabia)--most sacred site where the kaaba is housed Koran--sacred text Five Pillar of Islam: Faith (There is no gods but God), prayer, fasting in the Ramadan, contribution to the Islamic community, pilgrim to Mecca. Two types of religious architecture: Mosque and Tomb O’Riley, pp. 95-98

3.33 Jahangir Seated on an Allegorical Thorne, Mughal, c. 1625

Shan Jahan

3.34 Taj Mahal, Mughal, Agra, 1631-1643

Taj Mahal Taj Mahal (“Crown of the Palace”) is located in Agra It was built as a tomb for Mumtaz Mahal (“Light of the palace”), Shan Jahan’s wife built between 1631-1643 Built of white marble and decorated with semi precious gems; motifs: floral, vegetation, geometric abstract motifs and calligraphy ( It bulbous dome; pointed arches Garden represents paradise

Islamic motifs Prohibit figurative forms (architecture cannot be decorated with human or animal figures Allows Geometric, abstract, floral and vegetation motifs Arabesques-complex geometric patterns and scrolling vines Calligraphy-drawn from the Koran Rugs Garden represents paradise-water, trees, and flowers with variety of scents and colors