Islamic calligraphy is the art of beautiful writing — considered the highest form of Islamic art because it conveys the Divine Word. Over 1,400 years, calligraphers developed dozens of scripts, each with its own personality and purpose.
1. Kufic — The Ancient Script
Kufic is the oldest Arabic calligraphic script, dating to the 7th century. Characterized by its angular, geometric letterforms, Kufic was used in early Quran manuscripts and architectural inscriptions.
**Key features**: Angular, horizontal emphasis, minimal curves
**Where to find it**: Early Qurans, the Dome of the Rock, modern logos
2. Thuluth — The King of Scripts
Thuluth (meaning "one-third") is known for its elegant, flowing curves and dramatic vertical strokes. It's the script most commonly used for mosque decorations and Quranic titles.
**Key features**: Tall vertical letters, deep curves, highly ornamental
**Where to find it**: Mosque interiors, Islamic monuments, decorative panels
3. Naskh — The Reader's Script
Naskh is the most legible and widely used script. Most printed Qurans and Arabic books use Naskh. It's the foundation for modern Arabic typography.
**Key features**: Clear, balanced, easy to read, compact
**Where to find it**: Printed Qurans, books, newspapers, websites
4. Diwani — The Ottoman Court Script
Developed in the Ottoman court, Diwani is deliberately complex and decorative — it was designed to prevent forgery of official documents.
**Key features**: Dense, intertwined letters, dramatic swoops
**Where to find it**: Ottoman imperial documents, modern luxury branding
5. Nastaliq — The Persian Bride
Nastaliq is called "the bride of Islamic scripts" for its beauty. Developed in Persia, it's the primary script for Persian, Urdu, and Ottoman Turkish poetry.
**Key features**: Sloping, elegant, letters seem to float
**Where to find it**: Persian poetry manuscripts, Urdu publications
Start Your Calligraphy Journey
Our *Arabic Calligraphy Basics* book makes it easy to begin practicing these beautiful scripts. [Learn more here](/books/arabic-calligraphy-basics).