The aesthetical analysis of mural decorative elements in the Great Mosque of Damascus

Abstract

The Great mosque of Damascus is an iconic masterpiece of Islamic architecture of the Umayyad period. Greek, Byzantine and Persian cultures influenced and promoted the development of early Islamic art and architecture displayed in all aspects of this mosque.This paper will highlight the strong influence of pre-Islamic cultures and societies which distinguish the Great mosque of Damascus from other early Islamic buildings.This paper widens the scope of knowledge of the Great Mosque of Damascus by showing both similarity and the strength of influence of the pre-Islamic era, not limited to the inherited architecture, but mainly in the significant artistic features, showing the creativity of the early Muslim designer in planning and decorating early Islamic buildings.Moreover, the Great mosque of Damascus is considered one of the oldest and most admired mosques in early Islamic architecture. It is also one of the significant buildings that has great mosaic mural panels on the facades and interior walls, sculptures on column capitals and marvelous patterns carved in wood, stucco and marble work, that are distinctive features of this unique mosque. The choice of materials, the technique, colors scheme, and stories that were chosen to be brought vividly to life on its murals, are all witness to its greatness.In this regard, the research delves into the details of the building’s similarities and differences that trace it to its historical roots, which seldom are found or have been repeated in any of the holy Muslim places.