Ideas relating to equality, community and peace are central to Muslim life. These ideas originally were recorded in Arabic script, transmitted through literature and preserved in the calligraphy found on many art forms. Muslims view Arabic as the sacred language and the writing of the Word as the highest form of art. Calligraphers hold a honored place among Muslim artists.
There is great diversity in the small number of objects displayed in this gallery. They come from different places and time periods; they are made of many different materials; and illustrate a variety of technologies. The element that unifies this diversity is calligraphy. Each object is decorated with a range of calligraphic styles that together serve as portals to ideas and achievements, both spiritual and secular, in the Muslim World.
Some objects have religious significance, others illustrate contributions to education, exploration, science, technology, and the arts. All religious objects are characterized by calligraphic quotes from the Qur'an, whereas calligraphy on secular objects might be poetry, portions of a famous epic or perhaps good wishes to the owner. Some of the calligraphy has been translated and some details are supplied in the close ups.
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