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Example of Zafar's Calligraphy
Artist:Bahadur Shah Zafar
| Support Type: | Paper |
| Paint Type: | Ink |
| Current Location: | British Library |
| Location History: | Created in Delhi during the brief cultural renaissance of Zafar’s court, where he patronized legendary poets like Ghalib and Zauq. After the failed 1857 Uprising, many royal artifacts were dispersed. This piece eventually passed through the hands of prominent colonial-era dealers, such as S. J. Telléry & Co., who operated in major Indian cities like Delhi and Bombay. Today, this specific manuscript leaf is part of the British Library collection in London. |
This beautiful piece is an explicit work of calligraphy . Created by Bahadur Shah Zafar around 1850 , it was a mix of the king's regal power and the king's love for God . Arabic calligraphy has been a persistent artform for a long span of time . The particular style used here is called Tughra . It was used to write the name of the Panjtan Paak in a special shield shape . The writing is presented in a balaced manner . The calligraphy has a particular structure despite being mere writing , this piece looks like a palace , supported on pillars . The gold background in the middle adds a royal essence to the calligraphy .
Information Compiled by
Pratham Thakkar