Islamic Calligraphy

Islamic calligraphy, or Arabic calligraphy, is the artistic practice of handwriting and calligraphy, based upon the Arabic language and alphabet. The development of Islamic calligraphy is strongly tied to the Qur'an; chapters, and excerpts from the Qur'an is a common and almost universal text of which Islamic calligraphy is based upon. As Islamic calligraphy is highly venerated, most works follow examples set by well established calligraphers, with the exception of secular or contemporary works. 

In antiquity, a pupil would copy a master's work repeatedly until their handwriting is similar. The most common style is divided into angular and cursive, each further divided into several sub-styles.


The traditional instrument of the Arabic calligrapher is the qualm, a pen made of dried reed or bamboo; the ink is often in colour, and chosen such that its intensity can vary greatly, so that the greater strokes of the compositions can be very dynamic in their effect.




The Islamic calligraphy is applied on a wide range of decorative mediums other than paper, such as tiles, vessels, carpets, and inscriptions. Before the advent of paper, papyrus and parchment were used for writing. The advent of paper revolutionised calligraphy. 

Join us on the 27th June at Lal Qila in Manchester for calligraphy workshop with Ismail Hussayn and 3 course meal.

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Or call us on 01282 604055