Islamic art is generally characterized by its aniconic nature, meaning it avoids the depiction of human or animal figures in religious contexts.

This led to the development of three main forms of decoration: calligraphy, geometry, and vegetal patterns (arabesque).

Calligraphy, the art of beautiful writing, is the most revered art form, used to convey the divine word of the Quran.

Complex geometric patterns, or tessellations, were used to create intricate and infinitely repeating designs on surfaces.

The arabesque consists of stylized, scrolling vine and leaf patterns.

Islamic architecture has distinct features, such as the pointed arch, the horseshoe arch, and the use of domes.

The mosque is the most important building type, characterized by features like the mihrab (prayer niche), minbar (pulpit), and minaret (tower for the call to prayer).

Decorative tilework, known as zellige or qashani, is a hallmark of Islamic architecture, particularly in Persia and Turkey.

The muqarnas, a form of ornamented vaulting, is another unique architectural element.

While religious art was aniconic, figural representation was more common in secular contexts like palace art and manuscript illustration.