How to Read Islamic Calligraphy

By Maryam Ekhtiar

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.

Published by The Metropolitan Museum of Art/Distributed by Yale University Press

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1588396304
• ISBN13: 9781588396303
• Release Date: October 2018
• Publisher: Metropolitan Museum of Art New York
• Length: 156 Pages
• Weight: 1.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 8.2" x 10.4"

Customer Reviews

Basically, “The Metropolitan Museum of Art” displays a catalog.

However, this book is much more. It is all that the title promises as far as” How to read Islamic Calligraphy”, with displays of the actual items the calligraphy is written on; the descriptions and how-to translations are more than superficial. This comes well organized. Partial contents: Forward Acknowledgments Map of the Islamic World Note to the reader Introduction The Arabic Script Embellishing the Word of God Ornament and Abstraction Sources Bibliography Glossary Empires and Dynasties There are plenty of color pictures. One advantage of examining the objects in person is the 3D effect and a closer look; unfortunately, the book did not take the time to magnify some of the items. If I had not seen the book, I would still purchase it.