ISLAM AT THE CAPE
CURRENT

The museum, located in a home dating from the 1760s, offers an insight into the cultural life of a significant portion of the community of the Bo-Kaap area in Cape Town. Cameo exhibitions focus on aspects of life such the meaning of Islam, a religion that has been practised at the Cape since the 17th century. Decorative arts are featured as contemplative art forms that contribute to a deeper understanding of the Islamic way of life. more>>

Photographic exhibitions portray the contribution of the Bo-Kaap community to the local economy and the built environment of Cape Town. A personal impression of life in the Bo-Kaap is offered through the lens of photographer George Hallett.

Enquiries: Esther Esmyol, Tel. 021 464 1262 or email eesmyol@iziko.org.za
 

PATTERN OF BEAUTY
CURRENT

Islamic decorative art is a contemplative art form, and therefore has a deeply spiritual potential. As the depiction of human and animal figures is forbidden in Islam, Islamic art is mainly expressed in calligraphy, architecture and geometric patterns. Islamic art reflects unity, and the perfection in proportion and symmetry of God’s creation. With contemplation and understanding, these elements all reveal deeper meanings according to the Islamic way of life.

Qur’anic calligraphy is regarded as the highest form of Islamic art and therefore the patterns that illuminate the text carry a high standard of aesthetic harmony and discipline, balance and stability.

Selected artefacts from the permanent collection of Iziko Museums are shown in this exhibition, together with images of decorative art present in mosques around Cape Town.

Enquiries: Esther Esmyol, Tel. 021 464 1262 or email eesmyol@iziko.org.za.