Origin and history of Mohaqqaq-inspired
Muhaqqaq, meaning 'meticulous' or 'perfected', was one of the six classical scripts (al-aqlam al-sitta). It reached its height under the Ilkhanids and Mamluks in the 13th and 14th centuries, when it was used for enormous, luxurious Qur'ans commissioned by rulers.
The style was praised by calligraphers such as Yaqut al-Musta'simi and later Ottoman masters, but it became rarer after the 16th century as Naskh and Thuluth took over. Our version is 'inspired': it uses a Naskh-based font to approximate Muhaqqaq's proportions.
How to recognise Mohaqqaq-inspired letters
- Long, straight horizontal strokes extending far along the baseline.
- Tall verticals and shallow, extended curves at the ends of letters.
- Few descending curves compared with Thuluth.
- A spacious, stately rhythm suited to large pages.
Where Mohaqqaq-inspired calligraphy is used
Historically Muhaqqaq was used for monumental Mamluk and Ilkhanid Qur'ans. Today this dignified style suits verses, certificates, diplomas, formal invitations and wall art.
Tips for writing names in Mohaqqaq-inspired
- Names with long connecting letters like Abdulkarim or Salman let the horizontal strokes stretch.
- Use it for names on certificates, diplomas or formal invitations.
- Keep the horizontal layout to preserve the style's stately balance.