Arts Thread

Islamic prayer — performed five times daily — involves a sequence of physical movements: standing, bowing, and prostrating. For elderly or mobility-impaired worshippers, these movements become increasingly difficult, especially without ergonomic support. While seated prayer is permissible, the standard chairs found in mosques and homes often lack the structure needed to support comfort, posture, and dignified movement. Mantis is the reinvention of a kneeling chair designed specifically for Islamic prayer. It features a tilting seat that supports the spine and knees during prolonged sessions of worship and a sliding functionality for entry and exit. The knee rest allows for easier transition into the various prayer movements, while the head support mimics the natural gesture of forehead placement in sujood (prostration). The piece incorporates motifs from Islamic architecture and was developed through a combination of digital design (CAD), 3D printing, and handcrafted assembly. The chair includes an optional add-on backrest that honours islamic geometry.