How to Read Islamic Calligraphy

An accessible introduction to the quintessential art form of the Islamic world

How to Read Islamic Calligraphy explores the preeminence of the written word as a means of creative expression throughout the Islamic world. Aimed at a general audience, the book introduces all five major Islamic calligraphic script types, demonstrates their distinctive visual characteristics, and explains the various contexts in which each one came to be used, whether for transcribing the Qur’an, composing poetry, or issuing written edicts from the sultan’s court. Numerous examples illustrate how the transmission of these styles and techniques from master to pupil was fundamental to the flourishing of Islamic calligraphy, and handwriting models from as early as the 10th century continue to inspire students of calligraphy today. 
 
Superbly illustrated, the works discussed include manuscripts, glass, metalware, and ceramic tiles. This accessible and engaging book traces the progression of calligraphic styles over  centuries and across geographical regions, affirming the spectacular range of creative possibilities afforded by this unique art form.

O introducere accesibila la forma de arta prin excelenta a lumii islamice How to Read Islamic Calligraphy exploreaza preeminenta cuvantului scris ca mijloc de expresie creativa in intreaga lume islamica. Destinat unui public general, cartea introduce toate cele cinci tipuri majore de scripturi caligrafice islamice, demonstreaza caracteristicile lor vizuale distincte si explica diferitele contexte in care fiecare a ajuns sa fie folosit, fie pentru transcrierea Coranului, compunerea poeziei, fie publicarea edictele scrise de la curtea sultanului.