
The cloudband writing is an elongated and curled stylized cloud motif frequently used in English-language works under the name cloudband Cloud. Cloud bands are cloud-like decorative elements used to fill the spaces between other motifs. They are created by defining the shape of the line and filling the intervening spaces with gold leaf. This decorative form first appeared in manuscripts of the 4th/10th century. In some manuscripts, the cloud bands can be extremely delicate, forming intricate pat
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Burak Enes

Nuruosmaniye Mosque is a mosque built in the 18th century and considered one of the most important works of the Ottoman Westernization period. The word “Nuruosmaniye” means “the light of the Ottomans.” Nuruosmaniye Mosque is located in Istanbul’s Nuruosmaniye district (Molla Fenari Neighborhood), on Vezirhan Street. In the place where the mosque now stands, there used to be the masjid of Fatıma Hatun. The construction initiated by Sultan Mahmud I in 1748 was halted upon his death; it was then co
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Melahat Pamuk

A mishtar is a tool consisting of threads stretched at equal intervals on a thin cardboard, placed beneath the paper to be written on, and pressed by hand to produce evenly spaced lines on the paper, ensuring neat handwriting.【1】 The word’s etymology derives from the Arabic roots “satr” or “satar,” meaning “to write” and “line.” In the Ottoman period, the tool was known as “mistar,” while in the Arab world it is called “mistara.” Its Persian equivalent is “hat-keş.”Historical BackgroundThe histo
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Fatma Esmanur Koç

Chinese calligraphy is the art of writing Chinese characters in a disciplined manner using brush and ink. It goes beyond mere writing, carrying philosophical and social meanings. Calligraphy aims to reveal the visual and intellectual value of writing through elements such as line arrangement, brush movement, rhythm and composition. In Chinese culture, it is regarded as one of the four fundamental arts alongside literature, painting and music, and has been recognized for centuries as an indicator
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Nazlı Kemerkaya

Experimental typography is a design approach that redefines the form and function of letters by surpassing traditional typographic rules. This approach offers new modes of expression by employing various techniques and forms to enhance the visual potential of text. By its very nature, experimental typography is an application model that does not rely on fundamental rules or principles but instead grants unlimited possibilities for the use of text and other typographic elements in terms of form a
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Melahat Pamuk

Bursa Ulu Camii, Bursa's center, built between 1396 and 1400 by Bayezid, is a historic mosque and the largest multi-domed example of early Ottoman architecture. Beyond serving as a central place of worship, it has also functioned throughout history as a center for religious, social, and cultural activities. The mosque is notable for its 20 domes, central şadırvan, wood kündekari minbar, and rich hat art collection.HistoryAs one of the earliest architectural structures of the Ottoman State, Bursa
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Edanur Karakoç

Those Who Recorded History: VakanüvislerVakanüvis is the term used in the Ottoman State for historians tasked with documenting significant events. The word originates from Arabic and means "one who writes down events." Vakanüvisler, with the sultan’s permission, recorded daily state affairs, wars, major decisions, and transformations, leaving behind documented records for future generations.How Did Vakanüvislik Emerge?The role of vakanüvis became an official profession in the Ottoman State from
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Mustafa Cem İnci

Ink drawing is a longstanding artistic technique involving the application of a liquid containing pigment or dye—typically using a pen, brush, or other specialized tools—onto surfaces such as paper, parchment, or fabric. Recognized as one of the earliest forms of visual expression in human history, this method has been used across diverse cultures for both artistic and practical purposes. Ink drawing encompasses a wide range of applications, from the calligraphic and pictorial traditions of Chin
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Ömer Said Aydın

Ornamentation is the art of decoration used to adorn and make something beautiful and visually striking.The patterns you can find in books, mosques, palaces, ancient manuscripts, and tiles are part of ornamentation, featuring gold embellishments and colorful motifs.There are many different types of ornamentation.Calligraphy: The art of beautiful writing. Especially in ancient books and mosques, decorations are made using Arabic letters.Ceramic Decoration: Decorations made with colored ceramics.
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Meryem Şentürk Çoban

The term “hat” derives from the Arabic word meaning “path” or “track.”【1】 However, when used as an art form, it refers to the art of writing Arabic letters in the most beautiful and aesthetically pleasing manner. Calligraphers, the artists who practice this art, shape the letters so that they appear as if they were paintings. This art is also described as a kind of “geometry of the soul,” appealing both to our eyes and to our spirits.Where Did Calligraphy Art Come From?This beautiful art of writ
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Elif Laçin