Art of Calligraphy

The term “hat” derives from the Arabic word meaning “path” or “track.”^【1】 However, when used as an art form, it refers to the art of writing Arabic letters in the most beautiful and aesthetically pleasing manner. Calligraphers, the artists who practice this art, shape the letters so that they appear as if they were paintings. This art is also described as a kind of “geometry of the soul,” appealing both to our eyes and to our spirits.

Calligraphy Art (Generated by Artificial Intelligence)

Where Did Calligraphy Art Come From?

This beautiful art of writing began with the Arabic alphabet. Over time, with the spread of Islam, it became a shared value cherished and practiced throughout the Islamic world. It even came to be known as “Islamic calligraphy.”

The Journey of the Letters

Initially known by various names, Arabic script evolved over time into distinct styles. In Medina, the script became known as “Medani,” while in the city of Kufa, it was called “Kufic.” The Kufic script, in particular, was widely used from the early Islamic period through the Abbasid era.

Later, calligraphers established specific proportions to enhance the beauty of the letters. Thanks to these measurements, six distinct writing styles were developed: sülüs, nesih, muhakkak, reyhani, tevki, and rik’a. Collectively, these are known as the Aklam-ı Sitte, or “Six Pens.” These styles continued to evolve over centuries until they reached their present form.

Calligrapher (Generated by Artificial Intelligence)

The Role of Turkish Calligraphers

After the fall of the Abbasid Caliphate, Turkish and Persian calligraphers rose to prominence in the art of calligraphy. The Ottoman Turks, in particular, achieved great success in this field. In the 16th century, Şeyh Hamdullah introduced a new level of beauty to calligraphy and became one of the most important figures in Turkish calligraphic tradition. His works were so admired that people began to say, “He wrote like Şeyh.”

Later masters such as Hafız Osman refined Şeyh Hamdullah’s style and developed their own distinctive approaches. In the 18th and 19th centuries, figures like Mustafa Rakım and Sami Efendi gained particular recognition for their mastery of large-scale script, known as celi hat.

Istanbul: The Heart of Calligraphy Art

After the Ottoman conquest, Istanbul became the most important center for calligraphy. So much so that it is said: “The Qur’an was revealed in Hijaz, recited in Egypt, and written in Istanbul.”^【2】 This saying reflects Istanbul’s unparalleled mastery in calligraphy. People from all corners of the world came to Istanbul to study this art.

Calligraphy Art (Generated by Artificial Intelligence)

The Technique of Calligraphy Art

Calligraphers write on materials such as paper and leather using a reed pen and special ink made from soot. The beauty of the letters depends on precise proportions and careful placement. Calligraphers skillfully calculate how each letter will appear both individually and in relation to adjacent letters.

Even today, calligraphy remains intertwined with other traditional arts such as tezhip (ornamental gilding), miniatür (miniature painting), and ebru (marbling on paper). This art form is a unique heritage that reflects our past and illuminates the future.