Afia R Fitriati explains three terms commonly used in the realm of Islamic penmanship.
Thinking of purchasing an Islamic art piece for your home or office? Here are three terms to enrich your vocabulary as a new collector.
1. Khat
Shahada Set. Sakina Design
Khat is a term used to define different types of Arabic script. Khat scripting is a dying art as it is not as popular among young people as tattoo art or nail art. There are as many types of khat as there are fonts on Microsoft Word, but one of the most distinctive types is…
2. Kufic
Kufic script. Sakina Design
A kufic script can be distinguished from other kinds of khat scripts because it is more angular than cursive. Kufic scripts are also often found on geometric tile patterns in Islamic architecture.
The angular patterns of kufic calligraphy make it a beautiful choice to decorate today’s contemporary homes. A geometric kufic pattern on an artpiece can also make a great conversation starter, because one needs to look closely to read the words within the angled shapes.
3. Arabesque
Peter Gould’s Malaysian Star. Sakina Design
This refers to the elaborate interlacing decorative patterns of floral or geometric patterns commonly found on Islamic architecture or artwork of Islamic influence.
Many historians believe that the art of arabesque thrived in Islamic cultures because traditionally, the depiction of people and animals is generally discouraged. The interlacing structure and repetitive patterns of circles and squares of these arabesques are believed to reflect an Islamic philosophy of harmony and balance.
Can you read the words in the above art pieces?
Images courtesy of Sakina Design
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