We invite paper proposals for a panel onÌýSymmetrical StructuresÌýand Patterns in Islamic Architecture, Poetry, and Imagination,Ìýfor theÌý. The congress is scheduled to take place August 22-29, 2025, Ìýat the Orthodox Academy of Crete.ÌýABSTRACTS DUE MAY 1Ìý³Ù´ÇÌýbier.carol@gmail.comÌýandÌýcharleshowley1@g.ucla.edu.
ÌýPapers in the panel will beÌýallotted 20 minutes, plus discussion. See below for a description of the panel and further details, including preparation of the abstract.
PANEL PROPOSAL:ÌýSymmetrical StructuresÌýand Patterns in Islamic Architecture, Poetry, and Imagination
Persian and Islamic lands witnessed an intense flourishing of art, architecture, mathematics, science and poetry beginning in the 9th century. From the poetry ofÌýFerdowsi, Farrokhi Sistani, and Gorgani to the monuments of Bukhara, Isfahan, and Maragha, poetic, artistic, and architectural forms emerged that would become predominant throughout the Islamic world. At the same time, the translation and advancement of scientific, philosophical, and mathematical thought shaped an ‘Islamic Golden Age.’ Ghaznavid palaces were filled with poets and inscribed with poetry. Likewise, the Seljuk courts attracted literati and learned men of diverse backgrounds contributing to a vibrant intellectual environment.
In response to this rich cultural flourishing from the 9th-12thÌýcenturies, we envision an experimental gathering of scholars trained in different disciplines to provide interpretive insights and diverse perspectives on the use and significance of imagination in the arts and discourses of the pre-Mongol Islamic world. Papers will explore lines of thought that are literal, mathematical, and metaphorical with a view towards understanding how imagination figures in the articulation of worlds beyond that of the tangible.
This panel focuses on the symmetries of intricate geometric patterns executed in cut and glazed bricks on monuments in Iran and neighboring regions, considered in relation to Qur’anic passages and contemporary poetry. In particular, study of Nezami’sÌýHaft Paykar,Ìýa literary masterpiece of enormous complexity and imagination, exploresÌýits architectural references and geometric structures. Together we raise questions for the interpretation of patterns in spatial and imaginative realms.
CONFERENCE DATES AND VENUE
ÌýAugust 22-29, 2025, Kolymbari, Crete, GreeceÌý
CONFERENCE COSTS (for your calculation and planning)
Airfare to/from Chania, Crete, Greece
Visa, if needed
Registration fee (before June 30)Ìý350€, accompanying persons@ 100€
Conference fee (includes accommodation at the Orthodox Academy of Crete [room and full board], 8/22-29/2025)
Ìý Ìýdouble roomÌý1170€ per person; single room 1480€ per person
For more detailed information, seeÌý
ABSTRACTS
There is a specific format required for submitted abstracts. A template is provided here:
