What Is Calligraphy Art?
Calligraphy is a form of writing that is often seen as an art form, sometimes being displayed in museums. It is seen throughout Asia and comes from a Greek word meaning “beautiful writing.” In the West, calligraphy mostly refers to attractive penmanship. It is an art form that serves as an important part of many cultures, especially throughout the East.
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Chinese Calligraphy
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The earliest forms of calligraphy were oracle inscriptions created in China. They were created by the cracks that formed when bones and tortoise shells were heated, until cracks formed. The oracles interpreted these cracks and then recorded them. They eventually came to represent the words. Chinese calligraphy has evolved into a variety of specific styles, including the small seal, great seal, clerical, regular and running styles. Today, it is often put on top of everyday Chinese objects, such as dishes.
Islamic Calligraphy
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Among those of the Muslim religion, the Quran is the only physical representation of their religious beliefs. Therefore, the Muslims place great importance on how their writing looks, with the calligraphy serving as an art form. Islamic calligraphy is commonly placed on objects, such as ceramics and textiles.. Islamic calligraphers spend much time making the Quran ornate to demonstrate a respect for Allah. The prophet of Islam stated that Allah preferred that those who perform actions should perform them as well as possible. Thus, the act of making Islamic writing ornate is the act of writing in best way possible. In addition to writing the Quran, Islamic calligraphy is placed on various objects. It is not created often for its own sake, but is instead used as ornamentation on objects.
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Western Calligraphy
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European monks also believed the spiritual writings of their religion were so deserving of respect that they took the time write the text beautifully. They also sought to write the text in the most condensed form possible, since paper was rare and valuable. After the invention of the printing press, calligraphy became less common. However, with the invention of the flat-edged pen, calligraphy became more common again.
Southeast Asia Calligraphy
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Calligraphy art is used in various other parts of the world, especially throughout Asia. Distinct forms of calligraphy include Tibetan, Nepalese and Indian calligraphy. India has pillars throughout with inscriptions that were created by the edict of Asoka, an Indian emperor. After Asoka-style calligraphy, two other forms emerged: Kharosthi and Brahmi.
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References
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