The status of the concept “Eternal Wisdom” in Titus Burkhardt’s view about Islamic Art

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Mohammad Misagh Hasani

Abstract

In contemporary times, Islamic art defined as art that arises from Islamic culture in regions with predominantly Muslim populations or countries where Islam is the official religion has garnered significant attention from scholars and researchers, especially among proponents of the intellectual school known as Traditionalism. Among them, Titus Burckhardt is a prominent figure due to his years of residence and life experience in Islamic countries, such as Morocco, making him one of the first to approach Islamic art from a spiritual perspective. Although numerous studies have been conducted in Iran regarding his works, these studies have mostly focused on descriptive and quantitative aspects rather than analytical and qualitative ones. This article examines Burckhardt's thoughts through the lens of his unique worldview, shaped by the Traditionalist School and the key concept of "Eternal Wisdom."


Objective: This research seeks a better and deeper understanding of Burckhardt's and other Traditionalists' perspectives on Islamic art, which is recognized as one of the main theories in this field. The primary goal is to achieve this understanding through an approach that avoids unconditional praise or criticism, aiming instead for a balance between the two.


Method: In this study, we will focus on describing and analyzing Titus Burckhardt's views on Islamic art, framed within the thoughts of the Traditionalist school and the concept of Eternal Wisdom. Following this, we will delve deeper into the discussed topics using critiques provided by others as well as by the author, ultimately leading to significant findings.



Findings: This research presents critiques in the areas of ontology, epistemology, history, and art concerning the general theories proposed by Traditionalists in general and Titus Burckhardt in particular. Some of these critiques are presented for the first time and focus on the realm of art, especially Islamic art.

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