Women have significantly influenced the accomplishments of Islamic civilization through their important contributions to the legacy of applied sciences and decorative arts. From the onset of Islam and across different historical eras in both Eastern and Western Islamic societies, women have participated actively in public life. They sought education, educated others, journeyed for knowledge, were in demand by learners, wrote books, and were asked for advice on public issues. Women made substantial contributions to the spread of knowledge and the establishment of Islamic jurisprudence. Their endeavors covered a broad spectrum of domains such as science, art, and administration, and they had a significant impact on the scientific advancement in fields like medicine, astronomy, and pharmacy. Numerous women rose to prominence as scholars, jurists, hadith narrators, poets, and authors.

Women were involved in charitable activities and helped build mosques and schools, as well as donating books and Qur'anic manuscripts. In the domain of Islamic arts, women played a significant role, excelling in crafts like ceramics, pottery, and textiles. Their polished taste and artistic perception were evident in the elaborate designs and embellishments they crafted. Women also acted as sponsors of the arts and collectors of valuable artifacts that astonished historians with their elaborate details. Additionally, the representation of women in Islamic art—seen in artifacts, jewelry, and manuscripts—mirrored their valued position and importance in society.

Given the significant role of women in Arab and Islamic civilization, sectors associated with women thrived, such as jewelry, artistic objects, and accessories. In Islamic societies, men also played a role in the creation and advancement of art forms associated with adornment—like jewelry crafting, cosmetics tools, jewelry cases, women’s clothing, and various accessories - effectively showcasing the beauty of Islamic art during those times.

Considering the above, this seminar examines the part women play in the cultural legacy of Islamic sciences and arts, as well as their significant contributions to scientific progress and the evolution of Islamic applied arts. The event takes place alongside the commemoration of the International Day of Islamic Art, aiming to emphasize the significant contribution of women to the development of Islamic sciences and arts over time

Seminar Themes:

• Women's roles in the areas of medicine, astronomy, and pharmacy.
• The art of creating jewelry and the skill involved in crafting gold and silver pieces.
• The creation of beauty and cosmetic instruments and accessories.
• Fabric manufacturing and women's apparel.
• The craftsmanship of ivory items and decorative boxes.
• Household furnishings and wedding trousseau products.
• Currency minted by princesses and female rulers.
• The depictions of women in Islamic manuscript art and illustration.

Important Dates

• The seminar will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday, November 18–19, 2025, in conjunction with the celebration of the International Day of Islamic Art (November 18).
• The deadline for submitting abstracts is June 15, 2025.
• Notification of abstract acceptance: June 30, 2025.
• The deadline for submitting the full paper is October 20, 2025.
• Abstracts and full papers should be sent to the following email: Islamic.Civilization@bibalex.org

For further details, kindly follow this link:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/14w_0N9O1tatL0_OWRQuan6m9ReOPHpgh/view?usp=sh