Calligraphy and metalwork
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Numerous styles have been developed over the
centuries. Common styles are Kufic which is
mainly used for religious purposes.
Non-Kufic styles, called cursive is used for
everyday use. Two early common styles are
Naskh and Thulth. In the 11th century, the
Ta'liq style was developed. A later style
called Nasta'liq became one of the most
popular style to be used in Iran.
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Ancient or
modern calligraphy can be seen in
decorations of religious buildings and other
places. Also, it is used in holy Koran and
holy names such as Allah (God), prophet
Mohammad or saints.
Calligraphy and tilework at Jameh Mosque in Yazd
Calligraphy
has always been one of the most deared arts
throughout the centuries of the Iranian history.
These beautiful handwritings have been preserved
in the form of about 15,000 copies of the Holy
Koran and many other poems that blend together
the art of painting and writing. Many of those
hand written books are beautifully decorated and
pages are often framed with precious golden
characters. Many of Holy Scriptures are kept and
well preserved at the museum of the Great
Library situated in the city of Mash-had in
North-East of Iran.
The history of calligraphy in Iran dates back to
the pre Islam era. In Zoroastrianism beautiful
and clear writings were always praised. With the
advent of Islam, calligraphy got entered a new
era. According to Islamic thought, figural arts
and painting live objects has an idolatry
implication, therefore words and shapes were
chosen to convey artistic messages.
Becoming
master of Persian calligraphy requires long and
hard training together with self concentration.
Training starts with practicing Mufradat, i.e.,
writing lone letters and proceeds to Javameh,
i.e., writting a combination of letters and
words. A piece of trimmed cane, called "ghalam"
and ink, named "davat" are the only tools used.
Ghalam is usually made of good quality cane,
with around 5-10mm thickness. It is cut to
around 20cm pieces. the calligraphers are
responsible for trimming the nib and cutting the
point. The nib should be split in the center to
have equal halves.
Among the various Iranian calligraphers we can
name Abolfazl Savji and Mir Emad who were
evidently the masters of this art. One of the
most eminent students of Mir Emad by the name of
Nuruddin Mohammed Lahiji another famous Persian
calligrapher who was famous as Noora and
nicknamed Khush-nevis.
In the painting world, of the Persian painters
of repute one can name Reza Abbasi and
Kamal-ul-Molk. Hussain Behzad the dextrous
miniature artist is famous for his miniature
works. the works of this Persian artist can be
seen in most of the museums of the world