Kufic

Definition

Kufic is an early form of Arabic script that emerged in the 7th century, known for its angular, geometric style and bold lettering. This script played a crucial role in the development of Islamic calligraphy, serving as a primary script for writing the Quran and other important texts. Kufic is characterized by its elongated horizontal lines and sharp, vertical angles, making it distinct and easily recognizable among various Arabic scripts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kufic script was commonly used in early Quranic manuscripts and inscriptions due to its bold and legible nature.
2. The script's name is derived from the city of Kufa in Iraq, where it originated.
3. Kufic letters often have a rigid structure, which contributed to their use in architectural inscriptions and monumental art.
4. Over time, Kufic evolved into various regional styles, leading to variations like angular and rounded Kufic.
5. Despite being less commonly used in modern writing, Kufic remains influential in contemporary graphic design and art, reflecting its historical significance.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of Kufic script differ from other Arabic scripts like Naskh?
  • Kufic script is known for its angular and geometric structure, characterized by elongated horizontal lines and sharp vertical angles. In contrast, Naskh has a more cursive and fluid form that enhances readability. The boldness of Kufic makes it suitable for inscriptions and titles, while Naskh is preferred for texts requiring more fluidity in writing, such as books and manuscripts.
• Discuss the role of Kufic script in Islamic calligraphy and its significance in religious texts.
  • Kufic script played a vital role in Islamic calligraphy as one of the earliest forms of Arabic writing used for transcribing the Quran. Its bold and distinctive appearance helped convey the importance of the text it represented. The use of Kufic in religious texts not only demonstrated aesthetic value but also served practical purposes, as its clarity was essential for accurate reading and recitation within Islamic practice.
• Evaluate how the evolution of Kufic script influenced later styles of Arabic calligraphy and artistic expression.
  • The evolution of Kufic script had a profound impact on later styles of Arabic calligraphy by laying the foundation for scripts like Naskh and Thuluth. As artists experimented with the geometric forms of Kufic, they began to incorporate more fluid elements that characterized subsequent scripts. This transition reflected broader artistic trends within Islamic culture that emphasized balance between structure and creativity, influencing not only writing but also visual arts such as manuscript illumination and architectural decoration.

Related terms

Naskh: Naskh is a more cursive style of Arabic calligraphy that developed later than Kufic, known for its readability and fluidity, commonly used in books and manuscripts.

Calligraphy: Calligraphy is the art of beautiful handwriting, where the form of letters is emphasized, particularly significant in Islamic culture for expressing religious texts.

Illumination: Illumination refers to the artistic decoration of manuscripts, often accompanying calligraphy with intricate designs and gold leaf to enhance the visual appeal.