UMMA's vast collection is home to a variety of different types of objects which are apart of Islamic visual culture. In this collection, objects have been arranged into different resources by their materiality. Islamic art is quite difficult to define as the term can refer to art of any material from the period after the death of the prophet Muhammad to the present day. Additionally, Islam as a religion has spread across many countries and regions, therefore, placing Islamic art across the globe. It should also be noted that Islamic art does not only contain religious works but refers to regions where Islam was/is present. The works within UMMA's collection reflects this. Islamic art is such a rich visual culture to study because of the vast cultural exchange that has occurred across time and geography which has produced such diversity in the aesthetic and thematic qualities of their art.
Syrian Panel fragment with inscribed text wood, gesso, and polychrome 13 in x 74 3/4 in x 10 in (33.02 cm x 189.87 cm x 25.4 cm);13 in x 74 3/4 in (33.02 cm x 189.87 cm) Museum purchase made possible by the Margaret Watson Parker Art Collection Fund
Iranian Plaque with Kufic Inscription, from the Tower of Toghril, from Rayy iron 4 3/4 in x 31 7/8 in x 1/16 in (12.07 cm x 80.96 cm x 0.16 cm) Museum Purchase