Illumination - Tezhip

Tezhip, the traditional Turkish art of illumination, is a form of decorative art that involves the intricate embellishment of manuscripts, books, and various other objects with gold and colorful designs. The term "tezhip" comes from the Arabic word "zahhab," meaning "to gild," reflecting the art's frequent use of gold leaf. 

Tezhip was traditionally used to adorn the pages of the Quran, religious manuscripts, imperial decrees, and important documents, symbolizing their sacred or significant status.

Tezhip artists, known as "müzehhip" or "müzehhibe," use a variety of materials including gold leaf, natural pigments, and sometimes semi-precious stones. The primary tools include fine brushes made of squirrel hair and gilding tools.

The process begins with the preparation of the materials. Gold leaf is meticulously cut and prepared, while pigments are ground and mixed to achieve the desired colors. Initial designs are sketched lightly onto the surface to be illuminated. Gold leaf is applied using a mixture of water and gum Arabic, and then burnished to achieve a high shine. Once the gold is set, fine brushes are used to add intricate patterns and motifs with various pigments.

Tezhip is often seen as a form of devotion and respect, particularly in the context of religious texts. The use of gold and intricate designs symbolizes the divine and the eternal.