Boussy Zidan | Suez Canal University (original) (raw)
Papers by Boussy Zidan
Journal of Association of Arab Universities for Tourism and Hospitality, 2015
International Journal of Heritage, Tourism and Hospitality, 2017
Special issue on papers of the 10 th ICTH (2017) organized by Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Fayo... more Special issue on papers of the 10 th ICTH (2017) organized by Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Fayoum University
Journal of Association of Arab Universities for Tourism and Hospitality, 2016
The Islamic art is distinguished by the affluence in representing mythical creatures, they are no... more The Islamic art is distinguished by the affluence in representing mythical creatures, they are not only countless but also variant in shapes. Utilizing these creatures in the Islamic art was an outlet for the Islamic artist from any religious restrictions, strange and unfamiliar creatures, peerless in reality, so the artist will avoid mimicking God's creation. The different phases of the Islamic art of Egypt presented us with various mythical creatures such as the harpy, griffin, phoenix, sphinx, etc. This research sheds light on sphinx specifically. It appeared in many artifacts since the Umayyad period of Egypt. The research is an attempt to study both historical and artistic backgrounds of this mythical creature in the Islamic art of Egypt.
Journal of the General Union of Arab Archaeologists, 2019
This paper deals with themes of exchange in ceramic production, between the Islamic world, presen... more This paper deals with themes of exchange in ceramic production, between the Islamic world, presented by Iznik in Turkey, and Italy in Europe. This exchange took shape in the emergence of a special form of ceramic plates of Italian tradition in Iznik. This type of ceramic plates known as-Tondino‖ dishes was fashionable in Italy around 1500-1530 A.D. Iznik workshops had produced identical samples in the contemporary period as well. On the other hand, decorative elements of Iznik had greatly influenced Italian maiolica production. Of these spiral scrolls of the-Golden Horn‖, this was applied on Italian maiolica Albarello vessels. Furthermore, decorative elements of Rhodian style with their characterized polychrome design are imitated in Paduan workshops of Italy. In addition, various plates of Iznik production had combined between traditional decorative elements together with European heraldry of Italian families. Thus, such samples specifying a true image of the cross-cultural exchange between the Near East and the West. This paper aims at: I. Shedding light on the role of Muslim artisan in ceramic industry and their effect on the Western civilization, Italy in particular. II. Emphasizing that Muslim artisans had been influenced by the civilization of the West and adapted what suits their tradition and religion as well.
Did the Muslims in ancient times were highly proficient in mechanical engineering? Did they have ... more Did the Muslims in ancient times were highly proficient in mechanical engineering? Did they have a head start over the West in this field? Unfortunately, it is noticeable nowadays that Arabs and Muslims all over the world became just consumers; exploiting all technological developments of the West, that are rapidly growing. Here we had to wonder whether the Arab Muslims, long ago, were in this manner? This research hypothesizes that Muslims had attained an advanced level in mechanical engineering and were the inventors of the self-moving artefacts; recently known as automata. Accordingly, this research has undertaken the mission to prove that assumption. This paper focuses on automata machines, in the light of «kitāb al-Ḥiyal» of the Muslim engineer al- Ǧazarī. This book -initially manuscript- included a detailed description for these machines accompanied with painted illustrations known as «miniatures». The paper begins with a preface dealing with the meaning of fine technology and...
AbstractRecently, extremists entitled “ISIS” have been committing unusual behaviors, including pe... more AbstractRecently, extremists entitled “ISIS” have been committing unusual behaviors, including persecution, severe punishment, killing, slanting, and burning people alive in the name of Islam. These aggressions are committed against non-Muslims, e.g. Christians and Yazidis, for no reason but believing in other creeds. Furthermore, they act as the exponent of Sunnah, persecuting Muslims of different sects as well. Thus, an inquiry emerges as follows: is the term "Human Rights" in general, and freedom of worship in particular, as principles, confined to mankind of Western origin, or is it rooted in Islam as a first handler? Proceeding on this paper; it is become clear that “Human Rights” is not an outcome of western civilization, but it is deeply rooted from the Holy faiths and particularly among the fundamentals of the Islamic Faith about twelve centuries earlier than the West addressed the issue. Returning to true Islamic faith; Holy Qur’ān and the Prophetic Sunnah are ful...
JAAUTH, 2021
No doubt, every nation had possessed a set of deeply rooted beliefs, these rendered into variant ... more No doubt, every nation had possessed a set of deeply rooted beliefs, these rendered into variant practices and traditions, establishing civilization aspects. The belief in magic, superstitions and divinations are categorized under these beliefs. Mankind had tremendously believed their ability to hurt, bring bad destiny, and on other hand, trusting their capacity to bestow protection and guarantee good luck, thus, motivated the appeal to possessing amulets and talismans. This research paper deals with ‘Bāzūbands’; a form of amulets and talismans, worn by warriors to, morally, safeguard them and ensure triumph through Qur’ānic inscriptions, invocations, besides other magical texts. The research tackles some important aspects related the Safavid and Qajar bāzūbands, like the belief in magic, its roots in the Persian culture, an etymological study for the different terms; ‘amulet’, ‘talisman’ and ‘bāzūband’, to reveal their roots and consequent development. This is followed by a preview...
Journal of Association of Arab Universities for Tourism and Hospitality
Journal of Association of Arab Universities for Tourism and Hospitality
Journal of the General Union of Arab Archaeologists
Swastika" is an equilateral hooked cross, it is one of the symbols that became popular to several... more Swastika" is an equilateral hooked cross, it is one of the symbols that became popular to several nations of different cultures since prehistoric times. This symbol was associated, or rather, became symbol for some religious beliefs and spiritual concepts in some ancient civilizations. It has been extensively transmitted among several nations. Such prevalence proves the popularity that hooked cross "Swastika" had attained, however, this caused the difficulty in determining its place of origin. Some historical studies suggested India as "Swastika"s" homeland by the end of the Bronze Age, since it was predominantly a religious symbol of Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists. The spread of Buddhism religion which held the hooked cross "swastika" as a holy symbol, led to the emergence of swastika in China and Japan as symbol of prosperity. However, due to some evidences; others pointed out to Mesopotamia, land of the oldest known civilization on universe, which later became a cultural center extended from the Near East to Central Europe, and in Asia it had widespread and reached as far east as China. In addition, hooked cross had been contemporary to ancient Egyptian civilization. This had been assured by the discovery of a rock drawing in the western desert of Upper Egypt. In late historical times, precisely, the Byzantine empire, hooked cross was also in use. Furthermore, it was in use in the Coptic art as well. Hooked cross "Swastika" continued to be used in ancient historical eras; contributed in their arts, and till the modern era. In addition, the widespread of "Swastika" resulted in being associated with several terms; Gammadion cross or Crux Gammata, Hakenkreuz, Fylfot (fower foot), Wan in china, Manji in Japan, Tau cross, and Thor's hammer. In addition, each society used Swastika in a distinct fashion; it sometimes symbolized the Sun, good fortune, fertility, religious beliefs, etc. Through this stretched history, hooked cross"s symbolism had radically changed, especially in the 1 st half of the 20 th century A.D, after being chosen as symbol for the blossoming Nazi party founded by Adolf Hitler in Germany. Since then, the "Swastika" had been effectively detached from its past, Germanized and reinvented as a symbol of German purity and supremacy. This paper enclosed a briefed history of the hooked cross "Swastika" since its emergence, with stating the diverse thoughts of its place of origin. This is succeeded by the symbolism of the hooked cross "Swastika" and the changes happened lately. The final point is the outline of applying hooked cross "Swastika" in Islamic Art, this is supplemented by some chosen Applied artefacts demonstrating this. The Concept and Utilization of Swastika "Hooked Cross" on Islamic Artefact 30 This paper aims at:-Illuminating on one of the most unique symbols with differ meanings and argumentative as well.-Focusing on themes of association between different nations on vast areas since very ancient times.-Deducing the Islamic art"s tendency to admitting decorative elements of several cultures, if there is no conflict with Islamic faith.-Hinting that absolute facts or concepts are not exist, and symbolssuch as "Swastika" are liable to multiple changes. Research"s plan: I. History of hooked cross "Swastika" II. Symbolism of hooked cross "Swastika" in variant cultures through ages III. Hooked cross "Swastika" in Islamic Art IV. Descriptive study for certain applied artefacts V. Systematic analysis for the paper"s discussed artefacts (1) Bernard O"kane and others, The Illustrated Guide to the
Journal of Association of Arab Universities for Tourism and Hospitality
JAAUTH, 2021
No doubt, every nation had possessed a set of deeply rooted beliefs, these rendered into variant ... more No doubt, every nation had possessed a set of deeply rooted beliefs, these rendered into variant practices and traditions, establishing civilization aspects. The belief in magic, superstitions and divinations are categorized under these beliefs. Mankind had tremendously believed their ability to hurt, bring bad destiny, and on other hand, trusting their capacity to bestow protection and guarantee good luck, thus, motivated the appeal to possessing amulets and talismans. This research paper deals with ‘Bāzūbands’; a form of amulets and talismans, worn by warriors to, morally, safeguard them and ensure triumph through Qur’ānic inscriptions, invocations, besides other magical texts. The research tackles some important aspects related the Safavid and Qajar bāzūbands, like the belief in magic, its roots in the Persian culture, an etymological study for the different terms; ‘amulet’, ‘talisman’ and ‘bāzūband’, to reveal their roots and consequent development. This is followed by a preview...
Decorative elements are the mainstay of any art. Islamic art had several properties, including th... more Decorative elements are the mainstay of any art. Islamic art had several properties, including the remoteness from imitating nature and emulating God creation for being wrongdoing. Therefore; floral, geometrical, and graphical motifs became the main support for Islamic decoration. However, human and animal illustrations were avoided.
Whether Islamic Art began from scratch or followed prior arts in countries they – the Muslims- conquered; where there was prospering arts such as Byzantine and Sassanian ones? This matter will be replied through the research.
This research deals with the history of floral motifs in Islamic art; and focuses on palm and palmette trees and their fronds. This in terms of their history and origin -since the prehistoric and till the Islamic epoch- their significance, and then identify models of masterpieces which were ornamented with palm and palmette trees through describing a Collection of the museum of Islamic Art in Cairo and the Metropolitan museum of art in New York.
Tanta "Heart of the Delta and Blossom of the Nile Valley″ is the capital of Gharbiyya Governorate... more Tanta "Heart of the Delta and Blossom of the Nile Valley″ is the capital of Gharbiyya Governorate. It
became one of the considerable Islamic cities in Egypt the history of which was intimately related to al-Sayid Ahmad el-Badawi since he came down and settled there and performed his great religious and historical role.
This research focuses on ″the architectural complex of Ahmed pasha al-Menshawy in Tanta″ as one of religious tourism landmarks. It dates back to 14th century H / 20th century A.D and consists of a mosque and an annexed sepulcher. This complex overlooks al-Bahr Street. Construction work was done during the reign of Egypt’s khedive Abas Helmy II. This research also deals with the founder’s biography - Ahmed Pasha al-Menshawy- who was one of great owners of arable lands with the largest share of its income given away for charitable causes. This is followed by architectural and decorative description of the complex. The mosque has four identical facades; the north-west is the main one; it encloses the main entrance that is topped with foundation text; the minaret occupies its right side corner. However; the annexed sepulcher occupies the southern corner of the south west façade. Finally, we have to mention the complex’s touristic importance.
As a result of dangers and threats that faced the Muslims in the countries they conquered; severa... more As a result of dangers and threats that faced the Muslims in the countries they conquered; several defensive means were employed to fortify and safeguard important Islamic cities there. Qahirat al-Mu’iz in Egypt and Zabid in Yemen are samples of these fortified cities. This research encloses a historical background of both cities since their foundation and the sequent epochs onwards. Being of great political importance, each city was encircled with a well- fortified enclosure with several –secured- gates. The main urge to compare between these cities in particular was the existence of a gate called Bab al-Nasr ″The gate of victory″ in both. However, this did not deny the existence of gates with the same name in other cities, such as Aleppo in Syria; but the few remaining details of its composition obstructed combining it within the research.
While military buildings are containing defensive means ranging from walls, castles, fortresses, ... more While military buildings are containing defensive means ranging from walls, castles, fortresses, bent entrances, and tunnels; which are required by these structures’ employment to counter any attack. The secular structures – with its commercial and residential types – are also provided with similar elements. However the purpose of these elements is slightly different; they were employed to secure its inhabitants, as well as to observe the oriental traditions.
Through the field study, it was uncovered that the remaining structures are caravanserai “wikala” and houses for princes and senior traders; were built using high quality materials that allowed them to resist several climate changes, as well as obtaining considerable care of restoration and retention works. The thing which wasn’t available for obliterated buildings of low and middle social classes; which were built from lower-quality materials, so they were badly affected with long time and climate changes, so became rubble.
This research deals with a brief explanation of each element employed in securing structures; like bent entrances, secret entries, tunnels, secluded rooms and cabinets. This part is followed with a description of architectural planning of some monuments - from Mamluk and Ottoman epochs- with focus on security means included.
This research entitled "Desert hunting scenes in Egypt since the 4th to the 14th century A.D". I... more This research entitled "Desert hunting scenes in Egypt since the 4th to the 14th century A.D". It deals with the Coptic art's emergence in Egypt together with the dawn of Christianity in Egypt. After a weak and hidden beginning; this art reached its beak in the 3rd century and up to the 8th century A.D. With the Arabs conquest in Iraq, Iran, Syria, and later Egypt; it was the rise of Islamic art in Egypt. This art was greatly influenced by outdoor effects such as Greco-Roman, Byzantine, Sassanid, and Hellenistic arts. On the top of that, it was subjected to the local art of the Copts. The main item, however, is the illustration on walls, wood, stucco, or ceramic plates, those with scenes of desert hunting; as entertaining activity, types of animals often depicted, and hunting tools. This research depends on historical and descriptive methodology. It deals with the history of illustration and its development through epochs, and its distinctive properties. Moreover; it deals with samples of desert hunting scenes of both Coptic and Islamic art and comparing their elements.
This research aims to;
I. Define the relation between Coptic and Islamic arts.
II. Define the distinctive properties of both Coptic and Islamic art.
Keywords: Desert Hunting, Coptic Art, Islamic Art, walls illustration, Wooden Plates, Ceramic Plates
Zidan, B., 2014
This research is entitled ‘Incantation and equipment for facilitating childbirth in Islamic epoch... more This research is entitled ‘Incantation and equipment for facilitating childbirth in Islamic epoch’. It illuminates the care and charge given to childbirth. This care appears in specifying incantations and exorcism to facilitate childbirth, using seats with special design, and designating special isolated place known as ‘Sandala’ for the confined woman and her new born baby to stay there for 40 days away from any germs; while both are of weak immune.
This research depends on historical and descriptive methodology. It deals with one of the historical resources which are ‘Maqamat Al-Hariri’, especially the 39th ‘maqama’. This ‘maqama’ encloses an incantation for the fetus. Moreover; some monumental structures of both Mamluk and Ottoman epochs are mentioned here. These are the house of Amna bent Salem that encloses a collection of birth seats and stools, and the house of Zainab Khatoon that encloses a ‘Sandala’.
This research is divided into;
Keywords: Incantation, Throes, Maqama, Childbirth, Birth seat, Midwifery, Sandala
Journal of Association of Arab Universities for Tourism and Hospitality, 2015
International Journal of Heritage, Tourism and Hospitality, 2017
Special issue on papers of the 10 th ICTH (2017) organized by Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Fayo... more Special issue on papers of the 10 th ICTH (2017) organized by Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Fayoum University
Journal of Association of Arab Universities for Tourism and Hospitality, 2016
The Islamic art is distinguished by the affluence in representing mythical creatures, they are no... more The Islamic art is distinguished by the affluence in representing mythical creatures, they are not only countless but also variant in shapes. Utilizing these creatures in the Islamic art was an outlet for the Islamic artist from any religious restrictions, strange and unfamiliar creatures, peerless in reality, so the artist will avoid mimicking God's creation. The different phases of the Islamic art of Egypt presented us with various mythical creatures such as the harpy, griffin, phoenix, sphinx, etc. This research sheds light on sphinx specifically. It appeared in many artifacts since the Umayyad period of Egypt. The research is an attempt to study both historical and artistic backgrounds of this mythical creature in the Islamic art of Egypt.
Journal of the General Union of Arab Archaeologists, 2019
This paper deals with themes of exchange in ceramic production, between the Islamic world, presen... more This paper deals with themes of exchange in ceramic production, between the Islamic world, presented by Iznik in Turkey, and Italy in Europe. This exchange took shape in the emergence of a special form of ceramic plates of Italian tradition in Iznik. This type of ceramic plates known as-Tondino‖ dishes was fashionable in Italy around 1500-1530 A.D. Iznik workshops had produced identical samples in the contemporary period as well. On the other hand, decorative elements of Iznik had greatly influenced Italian maiolica production. Of these spiral scrolls of the-Golden Horn‖, this was applied on Italian maiolica Albarello vessels. Furthermore, decorative elements of Rhodian style with their characterized polychrome design are imitated in Paduan workshops of Italy. In addition, various plates of Iznik production had combined between traditional decorative elements together with European heraldry of Italian families. Thus, such samples specifying a true image of the cross-cultural exchange between the Near East and the West. This paper aims at: I. Shedding light on the role of Muslim artisan in ceramic industry and their effect on the Western civilization, Italy in particular. II. Emphasizing that Muslim artisans had been influenced by the civilization of the West and adapted what suits their tradition and religion as well.
Did the Muslims in ancient times were highly proficient in mechanical engineering? Did they have ... more Did the Muslims in ancient times were highly proficient in mechanical engineering? Did they have a head start over the West in this field? Unfortunately, it is noticeable nowadays that Arabs and Muslims all over the world became just consumers; exploiting all technological developments of the West, that are rapidly growing. Here we had to wonder whether the Arab Muslims, long ago, were in this manner? This research hypothesizes that Muslims had attained an advanced level in mechanical engineering and were the inventors of the self-moving artefacts; recently known as automata. Accordingly, this research has undertaken the mission to prove that assumption. This paper focuses on automata machines, in the light of «kitāb al-Ḥiyal» of the Muslim engineer al- Ǧazarī. This book -initially manuscript- included a detailed description for these machines accompanied with painted illustrations known as «miniatures». The paper begins with a preface dealing with the meaning of fine technology and...
AbstractRecently, extremists entitled “ISIS” have been committing unusual behaviors, including pe... more AbstractRecently, extremists entitled “ISIS” have been committing unusual behaviors, including persecution, severe punishment, killing, slanting, and burning people alive in the name of Islam. These aggressions are committed against non-Muslims, e.g. Christians and Yazidis, for no reason but believing in other creeds. Furthermore, they act as the exponent of Sunnah, persecuting Muslims of different sects as well. Thus, an inquiry emerges as follows: is the term "Human Rights" in general, and freedom of worship in particular, as principles, confined to mankind of Western origin, or is it rooted in Islam as a first handler? Proceeding on this paper; it is become clear that “Human Rights” is not an outcome of western civilization, but it is deeply rooted from the Holy faiths and particularly among the fundamentals of the Islamic Faith about twelve centuries earlier than the West addressed the issue. Returning to true Islamic faith; Holy Qur’ān and the Prophetic Sunnah are ful...
JAAUTH, 2021
No doubt, every nation had possessed a set of deeply rooted beliefs, these rendered into variant ... more No doubt, every nation had possessed a set of deeply rooted beliefs, these rendered into variant practices and traditions, establishing civilization aspects. The belief in magic, superstitions and divinations are categorized under these beliefs. Mankind had tremendously believed their ability to hurt, bring bad destiny, and on other hand, trusting their capacity to bestow protection and guarantee good luck, thus, motivated the appeal to possessing amulets and talismans. This research paper deals with ‘Bāzūbands’; a form of amulets and talismans, worn by warriors to, morally, safeguard them and ensure triumph through Qur’ānic inscriptions, invocations, besides other magical texts. The research tackles some important aspects related the Safavid and Qajar bāzūbands, like the belief in magic, its roots in the Persian culture, an etymological study for the different terms; ‘amulet’, ‘talisman’ and ‘bāzūband’, to reveal their roots and consequent development. This is followed by a preview...
Journal of Association of Arab Universities for Tourism and Hospitality
Journal of Association of Arab Universities for Tourism and Hospitality
Journal of the General Union of Arab Archaeologists
Swastika" is an equilateral hooked cross, it is one of the symbols that became popular to several... more Swastika" is an equilateral hooked cross, it is one of the symbols that became popular to several nations of different cultures since prehistoric times. This symbol was associated, or rather, became symbol for some religious beliefs and spiritual concepts in some ancient civilizations. It has been extensively transmitted among several nations. Such prevalence proves the popularity that hooked cross "Swastika" had attained, however, this caused the difficulty in determining its place of origin. Some historical studies suggested India as "Swastika"s" homeland by the end of the Bronze Age, since it was predominantly a religious symbol of Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists. The spread of Buddhism religion which held the hooked cross "swastika" as a holy symbol, led to the emergence of swastika in China and Japan as symbol of prosperity. However, due to some evidences; others pointed out to Mesopotamia, land of the oldest known civilization on universe, which later became a cultural center extended from the Near East to Central Europe, and in Asia it had widespread and reached as far east as China. In addition, hooked cross had been contemporary to ancient Egyptian civilization. This had been assured by the discovery of a rock drawing in the western desert of Upper Egypt. In late historical times, precisely, the Byzantine empire, hooked cross was also in use. Furthermore, it was in use in the Coptic art as well. Hooked cross "Swastika" continued to be used in ancient historical eras; contributed in their arts, and till the modern era. In addition, the widespread of "Swastika" resulted in being associated with several terms; Gammadion cross or Crux Gammata, Hakenkreuz, Fylfot (fower foot), Wan in china, Manji in Japan, Tau cross, and Thor's hammer. In addition, each society used Swastika in a distinct fashion; it sometimes symbolized the Sun, good fortune, fertility, religious beliefs, etc. Through this stretched history, hooked cross"s symbolism had radically changed, especially in the 1 st half of the 20 th century A.D, after being chosen as symbol for the blossoming Nazi party founded by Adolf Hitler in Germany. Since then, the "Swastika" had been effectively detached from its past, Germanized and reinvented as a symbol of German purity and supremacy. This paper enclosed a briefed history of the hooked cross "Swastika" since its emergence, with stating the diverse thoughts of its place of origin. This is succeeded by the symbolism of the hooked cross "Swastika" and the changes happened lately. The final point is the outline of applying hooked cross "Swastika" in Islamic Art, this is supplemented by some chosen Applied artefacts demonstrating this. The Concept and Utilization of Swastika "Hooked Cross" on Islamic Artefact 30 This paper aims at:-Illuminating on one of the most unique symbols with differ meanings and argumentative as well.-Focusing on themes of association between different nations on vast areas since very ancient times.-Deducing the Islamic art"s tendency to admitting decorative elements of several cultures, if there is no conflict with Islamic faith.-Hinting that absolute facts or concepts are not exist, and symbolssuch as "Swastika" are liable to multiple changes. Research"s plan: I. History of hooked cross "Swastika" II. Symbolism of hooked cross "Swastika" in variant cultures through ages III. Hooked cross "Swastika" in Islamic Art IV. Descriptive study for certain applied artefacts V. Systematic analysis for the paper"s discussed artefacts (1) Bernard O"kane and others, The Illustrated Guide to the
Journal of Association of Arab Universities for Tourism and Hospitality
JAAUTH, 2021
No doubt, every nation had possessed a set of deeply rooted beliefs, these rendered into variant ... more No doubt, every nation had possessed a set of deeply rooted beliefs, these rendered into variant practices and traditions, establishing civilization aspects. The belief in magic, superstitions and divinations are categorized under these beliefs. Mankind had tremendously believed their ability to hurt, bring bad destiny, and on other hand, trusting their capacity to bestow protection and guarantee good luck, thus, motivated the appeal to possessing amulets and talismans. This research paper deals with ‘Bāzūbands’; a form of amulets and talismans, worn by warriors to, morally, safeguard them and ensure triumph through Qur’ānic inscriptions, invocations, besides other magical texts. The research tackles some important aspects related the Safavid and Qajar bāzūbands, like the belief in magic, its roots in the Persian culture, an etymological study for the different terms; ‘amulet’, ‘talisman’ and ‘bāzūband’, to reveal their roots and consequent development. This is followed by a preview...
Decorative elements are the mainstay of any art. Islamic art had several properties, including th... more Decorative elements are the mainstay of any art. Islamic art had several properties, including the remoteness from imitating nature and emulating God creation for being wrongdoing. Therefore; floral, geometrical, and graphical motifs became the main support for Islamic decoration. However, human and animal illustrations were avoided.
Whether Islamic Art began from scratch or followed prior arts in countries they – the Muslims- conquered; where there was prospering arts such as Byzantine and Sassanian ones? This matter will be replied through the research.
This research deals with the history of floral motifs in Islamic art; and focuses on palm and palmette trees and their fronds. This in terms of their history and origin -since the prehistoric and till the Islamic epoch- their significance, and then identify models of masterpieces which were ornamented with palm and palmette trees through describing a Collection of the museum of Islamic Art in Cairo and the Metropolitan museum of art in New York.
Tanta "Heart of the Delta and Blossom of the Nile Valley″ is the capital of Gharbiyya Governorate... more Tanta "Heart of the Delta and Blossom of the Nile Valley″ is the capital of Gharbiyya Governorate. It
became one of the considerable Islamic cities in Egypt the history of which was intimately related to al-Sayid Ahmad el-Badawi since he came down and settled there and performed his great religious and historical role.
This research focuses on ″the architectural complex of Ahmed pasha al-Menshawy in Tanta″ as one of religious tourism landmarks. It dates back to 14th century H / 20th century A.D and consists of a mosque and an annexed sepulcher. This complex overlooks al-Bahr Street. Construction work was done during the reign of Egypt’s khedive Abas Helmy II. This research also deals with the founder’s biography - Ahmed Pasha al-Menshawy- who was one of great owners of arable lands with the largest share of its income given away for charitable causes. This is followed by architectural and decorative description of the complex. The mosque has four identical facades; the north-west is the main one; it encloses the main entrance that is topped with foundation text; the minaret occupies its right side corner. However; the annexed sepulcher occupies the southern corner of the south west façade. Finally, we have to mention the complex’s touristic importance.
As a result of dangers and threats that faced the Muslims in the countries they conquered; severa... more As a result of dangers and threats that faced the Muslims in the countries they conquered; several defensive means were employed to fortify and safeguard important Islamic cities there. Qahirat al-Mu’iz in Egypt and Zabid in Yemen are samples of these fortified cities. This research encloses a historical background of both cities since their foundation and the sequent epochs onwards. Being of great political importance, each city was encircled with a well- fortified enclosure with several –secured- gates. The main urge to compare between these cities in particular was the existence of a gate called Bab al-Nasr ″The gate of victory″ in both. However, this did not deny the existence of gates with the same name in other cities, such as Aleppo in Syria; but the few remaining details of its composition obstructed combining it within the research.
While military buildings are containing defensive means ranging from walls, castles, fortresses, ... more While military buildings are containing defensive means ranging from walls, castles, fortresses, bent entrances, and tunnels; which are required by these structures’ employment to counter any attack. The secular structures – with its commercial and residential types – are also provided with similar elements. However the purpose of these elements is slightly different; they were employed to secure its inhabitants, as well as to observe the oriental traditions.
Through the field study, it was uncovered that the remaining structures are caravanserai “wikala” and houses for princes and senior traders; were built using high quality materials that allowed them to resist several climate changes, as well as obtaining considerable care of restoration and retention works. The thing which wasn’t available for obliterated buildings of low and middle social classes; which were built from lower-quality materials, so they were badly affected with long time and climate changes, so became rubble.
This research deals with a brief explanation of each element employed in securing structures; like bent entrances, secret entries, tunnels, secluded rooms and cabinets. This part is followed with a description of architectural planning of some monuments - from Mamluk and Ottoman epochs- with focus on security means included.
This research entitled "Desert hunting scenes in Egypt since the 4th to the 14th century A.D". I... more This research entitled "Desert hunting scenes in Egypt since the 4th to the 14th century A.D". It deals with the Coptic art's emergence in Egypt together with the dawn of Christianity in Egypt. After a weak and hidden beginning; this art reached its beak in the 3rd century and up to the 8th century A.D. With the Arabs conquest in Iraq, Iran, Syria, and later Egypt; it was the rise of Islamic art in Egypt. This art was greatly influenced by outdoor effects such as Greco-Roman, Byzantine, Sassanid, and Hellenistic arts. On the top of that, it was subjected to the local art of the Copts. The main item, however, is the illustration on walls, wood, stucco, or ceramic plates, those with scenes of desert hunting; as entertaining activity, types of animals often depicted, and hunting tools. This research depends on historical and descriptive methodology. It deals with the history of illustration and its development through epochs, and its distinctive properties. Moreover; it deals with samples of desert hunting scenes of both Coptic and Islamic art and comparing their elements.
This research aims to;
I. Define the relation between Coptic and Islamic arts.
II. Define the distinctive properties of both Coptic and Islamic art.
Keywords: Desert Hunting, Coptic Art, Islamic Art, walls illustration, Wooden Plates, Ceramic Plates
Zidan, B., 2014
This research is entitled ‘Incantation and equipment for facilitating childbirth in Islamic epoch... more This research is entitled ‘Incantation and equipment for facilitating childbirth in Islamic epoch’. It illuminates the care and charge given to childbirth. This care appears in specifying incantations and exorcism to facilitate childbirth, using seats with special design, and designating special isolated place known as ‘Sandala’ for the confined woman and her new born baby to stay there for 40 days away from any germs; while both are of weak immune.
This research depends on historical and descriptive methodology. It deals with one of the historical resources which are ‘Maqamat Al-Hariri’, especially the 39th ‘maqama’. This ‘maqama’ encloses an incantation for the fetus. Moreover; some monumental structures of both Mamluk and Ottoman epochs are mentioned here. These are the house of Amna bent Salem that encloses a collection of birth seats and stools, and the house of Zainab Khatoon that encloses a ‘Sandala’.
This research is divided into;
Keywords: Incantation, Throes, Maqama, Childbirth, Birth seat, Midwifery, Sandala