Arabic Calligraphy
The Holy Qur’an
‘Multi-volume Qur’ans were divided into two, four or 30 parts, following an established convention.’
The Qur’an’s layout follows a fixed system of markings that indicate chapter titles and verse numbers. While in more elaborate copies of the Qur’an these markings are lavishly designed, in simpler less expensive versions, they are plainly marked. Gilding and other pigments were used generously in decorating title pages, chapter headings and verse-markings. Qur’anic manuscripts were copied in a variety of Arabic calligraphic scripts including kufic, naskhi and thuluth. Multi-volume Qur’ans were divided into two, four or 30 parts, following an established convention. These multi-volume sets are bound in high-quality covers and encased in beautifully made boxes or chests. Special bookstands were made to hold Qur’ans in an open position to aid both recitation and display.
Page from a Qur'an

Hegira 410 / AD 1020
Fatimid-Zirid
Museum of Islamic Art
Raqqada, Kairouan, Tunisia
This Qur'an was the effort of two artisans: the script written by a woman, 'Dura al-Katiba' – 'Dura the lady-scribe', and the gilding, decoration and binding by Ali Ibn Ahmad al-Waraq.