Stucco-Carved Mihrabs in Omani traditional mosques (13th - 19th CE): Compositions and Influences

  • International Conference on Mosque Architecture

Abstract

The corpus of published research about the Islamic architecture presents some gaps of knowledge about the architecture of the peoples who lived in some of the regions ruled by Muslims. The dynamics of influence that might have operated between the “monumental” architecture in these regions and their popular architectures are insufficiently addressed. Furthermore, the material culture related to the Islamic civilization suffers from some geographic and chronologic gaps. The present research aims to contribute to mend this gap by providing new knowledge about the traditional mosque architecture in Oman. More specifically, it will formulate some interpretations regarding the origins and development process of the practice of Mihrabs decoration in Oman between the 13th and 19th centuries CE. A total of 22 of such Mihrabs has been identified to have been the only remaining examples of this tradition in Oman. The paper presents the outcomes of a systematic survey and analysis of the architecture and artistic features of these Mihrabs and the mosques where they are located. The mosques and their stucco carved Mihrabs are presented within their historic and geographic contexts. The Mihrabs’ main components are detailed, and the origins and sources of influences of this craft discussed.

 

Author Biography

International Conference on Mosque Architecture

 

 

Published
2023-03-24