The term Islamic art not just describes the art created in the service of the Muslim faith (for example, a mosque and its furnishings) but also characterizes of the art and architecture historically produced in the lands ruled by Muslims, produced for Muslim patrons, or created by Muslim artists. As it is not just a religion but a way of living, Islam fostered the development of a distinctive culture with its own unique artistic language that is reflected in art and architecture throughout the Muslim world.