Beyond Words

Highlighting the beautiful forms and various applications of calligraphy in Islamic art

Calligraphy means 'the art of writing beautifully'. Driven by its use in the Koran, artfully executed Arabic script became a key religious and political marker at a very early stage; since then, calligraphy has played a central role in the Islamic world.

In addition to appearing on paper, artful writing can be found on everything, from coins, weapons, dishes, lamps, and textiles to the façades and interiors of buildings. The many types of texts offer rich and varied insights into Islamic art, culture, and societies.

Beyond Words presents 128 objects featuring calligraphy, most notably from The David Collection. In addition, the book contains articles on subjects such as the Arabic alphabet, classical scripts, the calligraphers, and the different types of texts. The publication also explores the use of Arabic lettering in earlier European art and in modern-day Arabic graffiti.