Definition of the word arabesque

The word "arabesque" originated in the 16th century from the French language, specifically from the Arabic term "zarabīs," which refers to a specific style of ornamental art and design that originated in the Islamic world during the 8th century. In Arabic, "zarabīs" means "little Syrian," which was the locative name given to Persian artists and artisans who migrated to the Islamic world from Syria during the Umayyad Caliphate. The arabesque style, which is characterized by intricate patterns formed by repetitive interlacing of vines, flowers, and calligraphic elements, was exported from the Islamic world to Europe during the Crusades in the 12th century. European artists and architects were captivated by the beauty and intricacy of this style, which they adopted and adapted, eventually leading to the creation of a new decorative art form known as the Mudejar style in Spain. The French, who were heavily influenced by Spanish culture during the Middle Ages, adopted the term "arabesque" to describe this decorative style. Over time, "arabesque" came to refer not only to decorative patterns but also to a dance form that was popularized in the 19th century by French ballet dancer, Marie Taglioni, who incorporated elements of Arabic dance into her choreography. In contemporary usage, "arabesque" refers to a ballet position in which the dancer balances on one leg with the other leg extended behind them in a straight line, forming a distinctive body shape reminiscent of the ornamental patterns of Arabic art.