What's happened
Ali Zaman, an Iraqi calligrapher based in Istanbul, completed a massive handwritten Quran over six years. The work comprises 302 double-sided scrolls, each 4 meters long, made with traditional materials. Zaman hopes it will be displayed in a museum to be appreciated as a significant piece of Islamic art.
What's behind the headline?
This project exemplifies the enduring cultural significance of Islamic calligraphy, especially in Turkey where the art flourished during the Ottoman era. Zaman’s dedication highlights the importance of traditional craftsmanship in preserving religious and artistic heritage. The work’s size and craftsmanship may set a new benchmark, though it remains unofficially recognized as the largest. Its potential display in a museum could elevate the status of calligraphy as both an art form and a spiritual practice, reinforcing Istanbul’s role as a hub for Islamic arts. The project also underscores the personal devotion of artists like Zaman, who see their work as a means of worship and cultural preservation. Its future display could inspire renewed appreciation for this centuries-old tradition, bridging religious reverence with artistic innovation.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports that Zaman’s Quran consists of 302 scrolls, each 4 meters long, made with traditional materials. The Independent emphasizes the work’s size and Zaman’s dedication, noting he worked over six years in Istanbul. AP News highlights the manuscript’s potential as the world's largest, though it lacks official recognition. All sources agree on the craftsmanship and cultural significance, with The New Arab providing detailed insights into Zaman’s background and aspirations for public display.
How we got here
Zaman moved from Iraq to Istanbul in 2017 to pursue his passion for Islamic calligraphy, which he developed at age 12. The art form, highly valued in Turkey, is seen as a form of worship due to Islamic restrictions on depicting figures. His project aimed to create a monumental Quran, reflecting both religious devotion and artistic mastery.
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Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, constituting the country's economic, cultural, and historical center. With a population over 15 million, it is home to 18% of the population of Turkey. Istanbul is among the largest cities in Europe and in the world
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The Quran, also romanized Qur'an or Koran, is the central religious text of Islam, believed by Muslims to be a revelation from God. It is widely regarded as the finest work in classical Arabic literature.