Qur'anic writing board c. mid 20th century

ink, wood

toned paper

light pencil work

rounded shape

ink

stoneware

prop product design

coloured pencil

wood

watercolour bleed

watercolour illustration

graphite

watercolor

This anonymous Qur'anic writing board, created in the mid 20th century, is a beautiful example of Islamic calligraphy. The board is made of wood and is covered in a brown, fibrous material that gives it a textured surface. The artist skillfully inscribed the board with verses from the Quran, using a dark ink that creates a striking contrast against the board's light background. This writing board is not simply a religious object but a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that exists within Islamic traditions.

Comments

minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

⋮

This finely carved and delicately calligraphed board from Nigeria mentions the name of Algerian-born Ahmad al-Tijani (1737-1815), who founded the Tijaniyya Sufi brotherhood in the 1780s. Upon entering the brotherhood, an initiate receives a sequence of holy phrases that he must memorize and repeat twice a day. It would seem that this board contains such a religious, pedagogical text. The Tijaniyya is now widespread in West Africa and was also introduced to the State of Kerala in southwest India. SIDE A:I am asking You, God, to lead me to the way of our sheikh, Imam [Ahmad Tijani].Oh God, Your blessing and Your mercy be upon Muhammad, and on Ibrahim, and the sons of Ibrahim.Oh God, You are glorious and praiseworthy.Praise belongs to God, Lord of the Worlds.There is no power but from God the Almighty. SIDE B:In the name of God, the Lord of Mercy, the Giver of Mercy!Praise belongs to God, Lord of the Worlds, the Lord of Mercy, the Giver of Mercy, Master of the Day of Judgment. It is You we worship; it is You we ask for help. Guide us to the straight path, the path of those You have blessed, those who incur no anger and who have not gone astray. Amen.Praise be to God, Who guided me only through Ahmad Tijani.Then, may God’s prayers and peace be upon the Prophet, the guidance of time.Then God is pleased with Ali al-Tijani.