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Islamic Calligraphy (_DSC8468)

LARGE

Gears: Nikon D50, Nikon 18-55mm

Location: Crystal Mosque, Wan Man Island, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia

 

Because Islamic leaders saw in figural arts a possible implication of idolatry, Islam's early theocracy looked to the artistry of calligraphy for religious expression. In Islamic and Arabic cultures, calligraphy became highly respected as an art -- the art of writing.

 

The Qur'an, played a central role in the development and evolution of Arabic script, and by extension, calligraphy. Today, calligraphy has become the most revered art form in the Islamic world because it links the literary heritage of the Arabic language with the religion of Islam. The result is an artistic tradition of extraordinary beauty, richness and power.

 

Calligraphy is an extremely demanding activity, and most of the great Muslim masters devoted their lives to perfecting their art. Mastery of calligraphy requires not only the discipline of developing technical skill, but also the engagement of the calligrapher's moral force and personality.

 

The scope of Arabic calligraphy is vast and diffuse. What I am presenting is merely a sample of the aesthetic, cultural, and scholarly wealth available.

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Uploaded on January 18, 2008
Taken on March 21, 2008