The arts of calligraphy (Greek, “beautiful writing”) have been celebrated in Islamic cultures since the seventh century. In addition to aesthetic appreciation, respect for calligraphy is tied to its association with sacred texts. Alef is the first letter of the Arabic alphabet, the language in which the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It is the first letter that a calligraphy student learns from his or her teacher.

The main styles of classic calligraphy in the arts of the Islamic world range from angular kufic to flowing naskh, and are found not only on the page — whether vellum (animal hides) or, later, paper — but also on ceramics, metalwork, architecture, and even carved into gemstones. The public accessibility of a variety of styles of calligraphy — easily viewable on the exteriors and interiors of monumental buildings, or on widely-circulated coins — contributed to its popularity and significance. This exhibition will explore four different scripts on a variety of artworks, some of which have not been on display before.