Arabic calligraphy is known as the art and design of writing in all languages that use Arabic letters. Arabic writing is characterized by its connectedness, which allows it to take on various geometric shapes through elements like curves, elongation, interlocking, and embellishment. Arabic calligraphy is associated with Arabic ornamentation and is used for decorating palaces, mosques, as well as enhancing books and manuscripts, particularly when copying verses from the Quran.
The emergence of Arabic calligraphy and its diverse forms are a result of the flexibility of Arabic letters and their ease of flow. Different pen styles contribute to the variety of shapes. The field of Arabic calligraphy has expanded significantly, leading creators and enthusiasts to innovate new letter forms and create new calligraphic styles.
Discussing all the types of Arabic calligraphy would be an endless task. However, let’s take the Kufic script as an example. If we focus solely on its types, there are over 120 variations of Kufic calligraphy alone, not to mention other styles.
In general, Arabic calligraphy has three essential qualities, ranked by importance:
1. Readability and comprehension: A good calligraphy style should be easy to read and understand.
2. Ease of writing: Calligraphy should be straightforward to write.
3. Aesthetic appeal: The visual beauty of calligraphy matters, and different people appreciate different styles.
The purpose of calligraphy was fundamentally based on these qualities, aiming for readability, simplicity, and beauty. As the saying goes, ‘The best calligraphy is what is easily read.’ An acceptable calligraphy style is one that requires less time for the calligrapher, occupies less space on the page, and remains concise and useful.
Beauty, of course, is subjective and varies among different individuals and groups. However, everyone agrees that captivating natural scenes—such as springs, trees, fields, gardens, and flowers—hold universal appeal. Similarly, colorful birds and nightingales flocking together, orderly caravans, and synchronized movements of soldiers all evoke admiration.
Regarding the types of Arabic calligraphy, we’ll never run out of discussion. For instance:
– Thuluth script: It’s one of the most beautiful and visually appealing scripts, although it’s also one of the most challenging to master. Thuluth is considered the primary source for other Arabic scripts. Its flexibility allows for various letter shapes, making it possible to write a single sentence in multiple styles. Thuluth is mainly used for specific verses, titles, and some phrases.
– Naskh script: Derived from Thuluth, Naskh is known for its beauty and the clarity of its letters during writing. It earned its name because it was widely used for copying and transcribing books.
– Kufic script: One of the oldest scripts, Kufic originated from the ancient Nabatean script prevalent in the Arabian Peninsula and Hauran. It was extensively used in Iraq and later spread to other regions. The name “Kufic” comes from Kufa, an Iraqi city.
– Riq’a script: Commonly used in daily life, Riq’a is characterized by its pleasing appearance, ease of writing, and readability. It was named after the ancient parchments (raqa) on which it was written. Riq’a is used for newspaper headlines, magazines, and books.
– Muhaqqaq script: A combination of Thuluth and Naskh, Muhaqqaq is used for copying the Quran. Its name reflects its purpose.
– Andalusian-Moroccan script: Derived from Kufic, this script was historically known as the “Qairawanian script,” named after the city of Kairouan in North Africa. It is used for copying the Quran in North Africa and Andalusia (Spain). Notably, it features rotated letters.
– Persian script: Originating in Persia, this script emerged in the 9th century AH. It is known for its beauty, clear and extended letters, simplicity, and lack of complexity.
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Exercises :
Each of these scripts has its unique characteristics and historical significance. Arabic calligraphy continues to inspire creativity and innovation, making it a rich and ever-evolving art form.” 🖋️🌟