Book of Prayers 1672 - 1722

This Book of Prayers was made by Muhammad Hussein Kaziruni around the turn of the 18th century. Observe the script; it is a dominant visual symbol that extends beyond mere linguistic communication. In Islamic art, calligraphy is not only a method of conveying text, but a profound spiritual practice. Notice how the script mirrors the sacred geometry so common in religious architecture. The letters interweave, creating complex patterns, which evoke a sense of divine unity and harmony. In a way, the written word becomes an icon, resonating with deep cultural and religious meanings. One cannot help but recall similar uses of text in other traditions. Think of the illuminated manuscripts of medieval Europe, where the Word was similarly elevated through artistic means. This interplay between text and image highlights our shared human desire to give form to the ineffable. The act of reading these sacred texts becomes a visual, emotional, and intellectual experience, engaging viewers on a subconscious level.