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Unit Two: Arabic Script and the Art of Calligraphy

Tiraz fragment

Tiraz fragment. Late 14th–early 15th century. Spain

After reading this unit, you will:

  • understand why calligraphy is the most esteemed art form in the Islamic world;
  • be able to identify the function and visual characteristics of some of the key scripts represented in the featured artworks;
  • recognize ways calligraphers use the shapes of letters to decorate objects and convey a wide range of messages.

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Introduction

Calligraphy is considered the quintessential art form of the Islamic world—Arabic letters decorate objects ranging from bowls to buildings.

Arabic and Islam

The written word acquired unparalleled significance with the arrival of Islam in the Arabian Peninsula.

Arabic Calligraphy as an Art Form

Calligraphy, from the Greek words kallos (beauty) and graphos (writing), refers to the harmonious proportion of both letters within a word and words on a page.

Origins and Characteristics of the Arabic Alphabet

The origins of the Arabic alphabet can be traced to the writing of the semi-nomadic Nabataean tribes, who inhabited southern Syria and Jordan, Northern Arabia, and the Sinai Peninsula.

The Arabic Alphabet and Other Languages

With the arrival of Islam and the conversion of many regions, a number of languages adopted the Arabic alphabet even though they bear no linguistic similarity.

The Development and Spread of Calligraphic Scripts

The first calligraphic script to gain prominence in Qur'ans and on architecture and portable works of art was kufic.

Proportional Scripts

A new system of proportional cursive scripts was codified from the tenth to the thirteenth century.

Regional Scripts and Variations

Scripts have their own distinct function and history.

Calligraphers and Their Tools

Calligraphers are the most highly regarded artists in Islamic culture.

Featured Works of Art: Images 7–11

Read in-depth information about featured works of art related to this unit.

Suggested Readings and Resources

A list of resources for additional reading, with grade levels indicated

Sources

A list of sources used to compile the information in this unit