What is Tezhip?

Tezhip: the art of decorating books, writings, and illustrations with gold, colored pigments, and intricate patterns.

During the Ottoman period, tezhip was used to enhance the beauty of handwritten manuscripts.

A person who practices tezhip is called a müzehhip.

Special materials are used to create tezhip:

• Ink: Used to define and highlight the designs.
• Gold: Used to achieve a bright and elegant appearance.
• Pigments: Colors such as blue, red, and green are applied.
• Brushes: Special fine brushes are used to create delicate lines.
• Paper or Parchment: The surface on which the designs are drawn.

Design Drawn: First, flowers, leaves, and ornamental patterns are sketched onto the paper.

Gold and Pigments Applied: Gold and colored pigments are carefully applied.

Details Added with Fine Brush: Small motifs and fine lines are added for refinement.

Dried: Once the paint and gold have dried, the artwork is complete!

Although traditionally used to decorate books, today it is also created for paintings, invitations, and special writings.

If you would like to try it yourself, begin by drawing floral patterns on a piece of paper! 🌿🎨