What are the main types of Islamic calligraphy? Over the centuries, calligraphers developed several distinct scripts, each with its own shape, rhythm and purpose. Knowing the types of Islamic calligraphy helps you recognise them in mosques and manuscripts, and choose a style you love for your home.
All of them grew from reverence for the written Qur’an, whose revelation began with the word “Read” (Sahih al-Bukhari 3). For the wider story, read our guide to Islamic calligraphy.
The Types of Islamic Calligraphy at a Glance
| Script | Look | Traditional use |
|---|---|---|
| Kufic | Angular, horizontal, geometric | Early Qur’an manuscripts, architecture |
| Naskh | Small, rounded, very legible | Qur’an copies and books; basis of most printed Arabic |
| Thuluth | Tall, curving, dramatic | Mosque inscriptions, chapter headings |
| Muhaqqaq | Broad, stately | Large Qur’an manuscripts |
| Diwani | Dense, flowing, interlaced | Ottoman court documents |
| Nasta’liq | Sloping, graceful | Persian poetry and manuscripts |
| Ruq’ah | Simple, quick | Everyday handwriting |
| Maghribi | Rounded, open loops | North Africa and Al-Andalus |
1. Kufic
Kufic is the natural starting point among the types of Islamic calligraphy. Named after the city of Kufa in Iraq, Kufic is usually described as the oldest major style. Its straight lines and sharp angles suit stone and tile, and a later form, square Kufic, builds words into geometric grids.
2. Naskh
Naskh is the clearest of the types of Islamic calligraphy, which is why it has long been used to copy the Qur’an and is the basis of most modern Arabic type.
3. Thuluth
Thuluth is often called the “mother” of the cursive scripts. Its tall letters and sweeping curves appear on mosque walls and domes, and it is the style most often chosen for grand wall art.
4. The Six Pens
Classical calligraphers spoke of the “six pens” (al-aqlam al-sitta): Thuluth, Naskh, Muhaqqaq, Rayhani, Tawqi’ and Riqa’. These rounded scripts were refined by masters such as Ibn al-Bawwab and Yaqut al-Musta’simi.
5. Diwani
Diwani is one of the most ornamental types of Islamic calligraphy. Developed in the Ottoman chancery, Diwani packs letters closely together in elegant, flowing lines. It is decorative rather than easy to read, which makes it popular for names and short phrases.
6. Nasta’liq
Nasta’liq developed in Persia and became the favourite script for Persian poetry, and later for Urdu. Its letters slope gracefully from right to left.
7. Ruq’ah and Maghribi
Ruq’ah is a compact script used in everyday Arabic handwriting. Maghribi, from North Africa and Al-Andalus, has open, rounded forms and distinctive letter shapes.
Contemporary Calligraphy
Today’s designers draw on all these types of Islamic calligraphy, often combining a traditional script with modern colour, minimal layouts or free-form composition. Whatever the style, the Arabic should be correct and readable by someone who knows the script.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of Islamic calligraphy is easiest to read?
Naskh, the style used for most printed Arabic and many copies of the Qur’an.
Which type is best for wall art?
Thuluth and Diwani are popular for their drama and elegance; Naskh works well when you want people to read the text easily.
Explore the Designs
Explore Allahu Akbar Contemporary Calligraphy and Sabr Islamic Wall Art. Both are instant digital downloads supplied as high-resolution JPEG files for printing at home or at a local print shop; no physical item is shipped. Custom designs can be requested in your preferred script.
