EVOLUTION OF GEOMETRIC PATTERNS IN ISLAMIC WORLD AND A CASE ON THE JALIS OF THE NAULAKHA PAVILION IN THE LAHORE FORT

Authors : Mahina REKI, Semra ARSLAN SELÇUK

Pages : 83-97

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Publication Date : 2018-06-29

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The geometric patterns in the Islamic World have evolved with the time, the empire and the region. These patterns not only show the aesthetics of the craftsmen, but the extraordinary skills and understanding of geometry in Islam as well. This paper examines the Islamic geometric patterns evolution through different dynasties and explores its significance in the Mughal Architecture, since they have one of the major architectural elements known as jali or screen. This research is based on the findings from the existing geometrical patterns from the Islamic World in general and focuses on a few major empires and their contribution in the development of these patterns. In this study, one of the milestones of buildings in Islamic dynasties was selected and the pattern tessellations belong to the particular building is reproduced.  It is assumed that selected building represents all characteristics of that period. Mapping the evolution of the geometric patterns gives us the understanding of the influences each empire had on the art and architectural practices of the ones that came later. Examined as a case, The Jalis of the Naulakha Pavillion in The Lahore Fort, shows that how a basic hexagonal pattern is used in different layouts. The skill and precision with which the screens are carved out of marble and the perfect tessellation is a classic example of the use of Islamic Geometric Pattern in architectural ornamentation and functional elements. Despite the diversity of each region, all the empires focused on glorifying the religious buildings, tombs, shrines and the royal palaces. By selecting each empires architectural marvel, which represents the glory of that era and their craftsmanship, their patterns are studied and drawn in order to simplify the basic pattern and understand its relation and inspiration from the former empires. The complexity of the grid and the simplicity of the patterns are highlighted and understood in these examples. 
Keywords : Islamic geometry, Geometric patterns, Dynasties Jali, Mughal architecture