The deep love for Allah within the hearts of calligraphers, combined with their desire to inscribe the divine words in the most beautiful way, has elevated calligraphy to the realm of art. Throughout the history of calligraphy, master calligraphers have introduced innovative and remarkable techniques, with a great impact on subsequent generations. These masters have mentored new calligraphers, resulting in the creation of numerous exquisite pieces.

The exhibition “Famous Calligraphers in the Course of History” presents a chronological showcase of works from influential calligraphers of the 17th to the 20th centuries, alongside the works of renowned contemporary calligraphers. Highlighted in the exhibition are masterpieces by celebrated figures such as Hâfız Osman (d. 1698), Sultan III. Ahmed (d. 1736), Mahmud Celâleddin Efendi (d. 1829), Sultan II. Mahmud (d. 1839), Kazasker Mustafa İzzet Efendi (d. 1876), Galatalı Mehmed Izzet Efendi (d. 1903), Hasan Sırrı Efendi (d. 1905), Çırçırlı Ali Efendi (d. 1906), Bakkal Ârif Efendi (d. 1909), Sâmi Efendi (d. 1912), Fehmi Efendi (d. 1915), Aziz Rıfâî Efendi (d. 1934), Mehmed Nûrî Sivasî (d. 1935-1945), Kâmil Ülgen (d. 1958), Mâcid Ayral (d. 1961), Kemal Batanay (d. 1981), and Hâmid Aytaç (d. 1982). The collection also includes works by prominent modern calligraphers like Hasan Çelebi (b. 1937), Ali Toy (b. 1960), Mehmed Özçay (b. 1961), and Ferhat Kurlu (b. 1976). We wanted to bring this new selection to art enthusiasts.

With their ever-burning desire to attain beauty, artists have reflected their aesthetic tastes in every era, crafting these works in various calligraphy styles that captivate the viewer with the sheer elegance of their script. Calligraphy, often described as “a spiritual geometry executed with corporeal tools,” embodies the harmony of letters within words, the posture of words along the lines, and the inclinations that form the rhythm of the writing—all these elements leaving a profound impression upon both our eyes and our souls. In these invaluable works, we not only witness the aesthetic allure of letters but also experience the thrilling impact of various styles of script. The grandeur of jali thuluth compositions, the majesty of jali diwani the simplicity of jali ta’liq writings, the solemn dignity of muhaqqaq script, the elegance of naskh, and the delicate intricacy of ghubari—woven almost like embroidery—all come together to enchant and inspire us.

These 41 works, which take us on a visual feast through the historical journey of calligraphy, also feature admonitions and prayers. Written by calligraphers with love and patience, and adorned by illuminators with extraordinary delicacy, these venerated works not only enrapture us with their majesty but also beckon us toward profound contemplation of their timeless meanings.

The symphony of letters, gracefully brought to life by the hands of these masters, intertwines seamlessly with their profound meanings, stirring the depths of our souls and elevating our hearts toward the Divine.

And finally:

The plaque by the great 19th-century calligrapher Mahmud Celâleddin Efendi reminds us:
“He whose heart holds Allah shall find Allah his helper in both worlds,
He whose heart holds aught but Allah shall find Allah his adversary in both worlds...”