Calligraphy - Hüsn-ü hat

Turkish calligraphy, known as "hat," is a highly esteemed art form in Turkish and Islamic culture, involving the creation of beautiful, intricate script using Arabic letters.

Hat has its roots in the Arabic script, which was adopted by Turks following their conversion to Islam in the 10th century. The art form developed significantly during the Seljuk and Ottoman periods.

Under the Ottoman Empire, Turkish calligraphy reached its zenith, with calligraphers developing unique styles and techniques. It was influenced by Persian calligraphy but evolved into its own distinct art form.

Learning Turkish calligraphy traditionally involves years of rigorous training under the guidance of a master calligrapher. Apprentices practice basic strokes and gradually progress to more complex compositions.

Calligraphy pieces often involve careful planning and composition. Calligraphers pay attention to the harmony, balance, and flow of the script within the designated space. Many calligraphic works are enhanced with decorative elements, such as gilding, marbling, illumination, and intricate geometric or floral patterns.

Despite changes in the written script of the Turkish language, the art of calligraphy continues to thrive, preserving its legacy and inspiring new generations of artists.