Click here (metmuseum), and follow the links, to view beautiful examples of Islamic calligraphy from across the ages...
Why might the Arabic language have achieved such high artistic regard, given Islam's core character as a Quranic, monotheistic, and anti-idolatry religion?
4 comments:
Anonymous
said...
Considering that the Arabic Quran is believed to have been dictated by Allah, every word takes on divine import. If other forms of idols are forbidden, then enshrining Allah's words as art is a very ingenious way to celebrate Islam without breaking anti-idolatry laws.
I agree with John (and Bob, for that matter--these are really beautiful) in that it makes sense for calligraphy to have co-developed with Islam. The divinity of the Quran is to Muslims indisputable, and the idea that the most clear, original version of the Quran as the Arabic version gives rise to artistic expressions. Additionally, the Quran is very poetic in some of its verses. This medium allows us to visually enjoy verses that are also beautiful in substance or style.
To me, Arabic script(s) possess a structural beauty and variability that Romanized texts (for all our many font choices) are hard-pressed to equal. The curves, swirls, ligatures, etc... a glorious fluidity!
4 comments:
Considering that the Arabic Quran is believed to have been dictated by Allah, every word takes on divine import. If other forms of idols are forbidden, then enshrining Allah's words as art is a very ingenious way to celebrate Islam without breaking anti-idolatry laws.
John
I find this form of art amazing. I would love to be able to do caligraphy. these pieces of art are nice and I would like to see more of them.
Bob
I agree with John (and Bob, for that matter--these are really beautiful) in that it makes sense for calligraphy to have co-developed with Islam. The divinity of the Quran is to Muslims indisputable, and the idea that the most clear, original version of the Quran as the Arabic version gives rise to artistic expressions. Additionally, the Quran is very poetic in some of its verses. This medium allows us to visually enjoy verses that are also beautiful in substance or style.
-Valerie
To me, Arabic script(s) possess a structural beauty and variability that Romanized texts (for all our many font choices) are hard-pressed to equal. The curves, swirls, ligatures, etc... a glorious fluidity!
pdk
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