The Most Famous Arabic Calligrapher, Ranked

Choose the calligrapher you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 21, 2024 07:31
The art of Arabic calligraphy holds a significant place in the history and culture of the Arab world, dating back centuries to when it was first used to preserve the Quran. Over time, it has evolved into various unique and complex styles, each representative of a broader cultural and historical context. This evolution has given rise to numerous talented calligraphers, whose work continues to inspire and influence new generations. By creating a ranked list of these artistic giants, aficionados and newcomers alike gain a structured insight into the diverse world of Arabic calligraphy. The system is designed to highlight different perspectives on what makes a calligrapher particularly noteworthy. Your votes help to continually update and refine this ranking, ensuring that it reflects the collective admiration and recognition of the community.

Who Is the Most Famous Arabic Calligrapher?

  1. 1
    73
    points
    Ibn Muqla

    Ibn Muqla

    A pioneer of Islamic calligraphy, known for developing the first standard set of proportional rules for Arabic script.
    • Era: 10th century
    • Contribution: Developed the proportional script
  2. 2
    22
    points
    Yaqut al-Musta'simi

    Yaqut al-Musta'simi

    A master calligrapher of the Abbasid era, known for his work in the thuluth and naskh scripts.
    • Era: 13th century
    • Contribution: Mastered thuluth and naskh scripts
  3. 3
    20
    points
    Sheikh Hamdullah

    Sheikh Hamdullah

    Considered the father of Ottoman calligraphy, he perfected the naskh script and influenced many future calligraphers.
    • Era: 15th-16th century
    • Contribution: Perfected the naskh script
  4. 4
    1
    points
    Ibn al-Bawwab

    Ibn al-Bawwab

    Renowned for refining the styles developed by Ibn Muqla and is credited with creating the first copy of the Qur'an in the naskh script.
    • Era: 11th century
    • Contribution: Perfected the naskh script
  5. 5
    1
    points
    Mustafa Rakim

    Mustafa Rakim

    An Ottoman calligrapher known for his work in the thuluth and naskh scripts, and for developing the tuluth script.
    • Era: 18th-19th century
    • Contribution: Developed the tuluth script
  6. 6
    1
    points
    Mehmed Şevki Efendi

    Mehmed Şevki Efendi

    A late Ottoman calligrapher noted for his mastery in the thuluth and naskh scripts, and for teaching many students who would become masters themselves.
    • Era: 19th century
    • Contribution: Mastery in thuluth and naskh scripts
  7. 7
    1
    points
    Seyyid Kasim Gubari

    Seyyid Kasim Gubari

    Known for his exceptional skill in the thuluth script, he is considered one of the greatest calligraphers of the Ottoman period.
    • Era: 17th century
    • Contribution: Mastered the thuluth script
  8. 8
    1
    points
    Ahmed Karahisari

    Ahmed Karahisari

    An influential Ottoman calligrapher known for his work in developing the diwani jali script.
    • Era: 16th century
    • Contribution: Developed the diwani jali script
  9. 9
    1
    points

    Hâfiz Osman

    An Ottoman calligrapher who greatly influenced the development of the diwani script.
    • Era: 17th century
    • Contribution: Influenced the diwani script
  10. 10
    0
    points

    Hamdullah al-Amasi

    A prominent Ottoman calligrapher known for his contributions to the development of the naskh and thuluth scripts.
    • Era: 15th century
    • Contribution: Developed naskh and thuluth scripts

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous Arabic calligrapher. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Calligrapher is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

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  • 4115 views
  • 121 votes
  • 10 ranked items

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A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Calligrapher once every 24 hours. The rank of each Calligrapher is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More about the Most Famous Arabic Calligrapher

Ibn Muqla
Rank #1 for the most famous Arabic calligrapher: Ibn Muqla (Source)
Arabic calligraphy has a long history. It is a revered art form in the Arab world. The beauty of the script reflects the rich culture and heritage. Calligraphers spend years mastering this skill. They study the shapes and forms of each letter. They learn to balance the script on the page. The goal is to create harmony and elegance.

The origins of Arabic calligraphy date back to the early days of Islam. It began as a way to preserve the Quran. The script had to be clear and beautiful. Over time, it evolved into an art form. Different styles emerged. Each style has its own rules and characteristics. Some are simple and easy to read. Others are intricate and ornate.

Calligraphers use special tools. The pen, or qalam, is made from a reed or bamboo. The ink must be of high quality. The paper must be smooth. The calligrapher must have a steady hand and a keen eye.

Calligraphy is not just about writing. It is about expressing beauty and meaning. The calligrapher must understand the text. They must convey its essence through the script. This requires deep knowledge and insight.

Learning calligraphy is a long process. It starts with basic strokes. The student practices them over and over. They learn to control the pen. They learn to create smooth, flowing lines. As they progress, they move on to more complex forms. They study the work of past masters. They try to emulate their style.

The calligrapher must also have a sense of design. They must know how to arrange the script on the page. They must create a balanced composition. This requires creativity and skill.

Calligraphy is more than just an art. It is a spiritual practice. The calligrapher must be patient and disciplined. They must have a clear mind. They must be in tune with their inner self. This adds depth to their work.

Arabic calligraphy has influenced many other art forms. It appears in architecture, textiles, and ceramics. It is a symbol of cultural identity. It connects people to their history and traditions.

Today, calligraphy is still practiced and revered. Modern calligraphers continue to innovate. They blend traditional techniques with contemporary styles. They keep the art alive and relevant.

The beauty of Arabic calligraphy lies in its simplicity and elegance. It is a testament to the skill and dedication of the calligrapher. It is a celebration of the written word. It is a bridge between the past and the present. It is a source of pride and inspiration for many.

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