Contrasting Islamic and Byzantine Art

I decided to contrast Islamic and Byzantine art because they are very different. There are many obvious differences but also some smaller less obvious details.

This is an example of Islamic

This is an example on Byzantine art

As said by LACMA's description of Islamic art, Islamic art uses vivid colors and uses both form and design, it is considered highly dynamic art. There is significant influences from other cultures, but it does use it's own unique artistic language. Calligraphy is the most important element in Islamic art.  It has always been considered the noblest form of art because the Qur'an which is the Muslim holy book. Islamic art also covered surfaces with patterns composed of geometric elements. Representational imagery is only allowed in private and is excluded from the decoration of religious monuments as not to be mistaken with idolatry, which is forbidden. Manuscripts, woven textiles and carpets, metalwork, glass, ceramics, and carved wood and stone are all aspects of Islamic art. The making of religious buildings was up to the government not the people.

As said my the Metropolitan museum of art, Byzantine art is the product of the Eastern Roman Empire. Byzantine paintings and mosaics are characterized by a rich use of color and figures which seem flat and stiff. The figures also tend to appear to be floating, and to have large eyes. Backgrounds tend to be solid gold. Intended as religious lessons, they were presented clearly and simply in order to be easily learned. Early Byzantine art is often called "Early Christian art."

As you can see there are many obvious differences between the two art styles.