Principles of Calligraphy Placement in Islamic Public Buildings

Ziad Baydoun, Tenku Putri Norishah Binti Tenku Shariman, Fauzan Bin Mustaffa, Mastura Adam, Afeerah Farooq

Abstract


This study investigates the intricate connection between Islamic calligraphy and the architectural settings in which it is found. Islamic calligraphy is an extremely valued art form in the Islamic world and has historically been found in mosques, madrasas, and other Islamic buildings. Within the interior and exterior spaces of Islamic public buildings, the study gives a qualitative analysis centered on Islamic calligraphy's visual characteristics and placement principles. The study utilized chosen case studies, Al-Hambra in Spain and Al-Azem in Syria, to find and determine relevant visual features. An important understanding of the placement principles and critical visual characteristics of Islamic architectural public structures was obtained from the analytical review of these case studies. Three master calligraphers were interviewed to corroborate these results and add to the body of knowledge regarding the arrangement of Islamic calligraphy in the designated architectural contexts. The findings have important ramifications for using Islamic calligraphy in the architecture and decoration of historically and culturally significant public buildings.


Keywords


Calligraphy; Islamic Architecture; Mosques; Palaces; Public buildings

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References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.18860/jia.v8i2.25772

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