Ottoman calligraphy is an Islamic calligraphy that developed during the Ottoman Empire and lasted from the 14th century to the early 20th century. It is a form of art that includes writing and design using the Arabic or Persian alphabet, but with a unique Ottoman style that distinguishes it from other Islamic calligraphy forms.

Ottoman calligraphy was highly prized by the Ottomans, who saw it as a way to express the beauty and power of the written word. Calligraphy was seen as a way to elevate the written word to the level of art and was used to convey important messages such as the texts of the Qur'an.

Calligraphers in the Ottoman Empire were highly respected and were often employed by the court to create important documents such as royal edicts and leaflets. They were also responsible for decorating mosques, buildings and objects with their intricate and beautiful designs.

Ottoman calligraphy is characterized by its use of bold, flowing lines, intricate designs and a wide variety of inscriptions. Some of the most used scripts in Ottoman calligraphy are naskh, thuluth and divan. Each script has its own unique features and is used for specific purposes.

Today, Ottoman calligraphy continues to be appreciated as an art form and is often used in contemporary Islamic design. It remains an important part of the cultural heritage of Turkey and the wider Islamic world.

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Istanbul Izmir Antique