Iconographic Figures in Turkish Architectural Ornamentation Art

In hunter societies where the Animal Style is prevalent, magic and talismans hold significant importance. In primitive communities, people regarded all objects in nature and the sky as living beings, creating an imaginary world composed of supernatural creatures. Thus, a hidden, imaginary world consisting of supernatural creatures was spoken of, distinct from the visible and known material world. These figures, described as fantastic creatures by researchers, have been applied to various materials such as wood, glass, and fabric, predominantly stone, across a wide geographical area and over a considerable period.

Examples featuring mythological animal figures, reflecting the characteristics of nomadic society before Islam, continued after the adoption of Islam. Turks attributed meanings such as good fortune and luck to animal motifs. Examples applying animal figures are relatively few compared to plant-based, especially geometric, motifs. The subject of this book is to examine existing examples in situ, determine their current state, and serves as an original study providing a significant resource for researchers working in this field.