Origin and history of Ornamented Kufic
As Kufic matured between the 9th and 12th centuries, calligraphers began adding decoration: leaves and palmettes at letter ends (foliated Kufic), flowers growing from the stems (floriated Kufic), and knots and interlaced loops (plaited Kufic).
These ornamental versions decorated Qur'an headings, ceramics, metalwork and buildings from Spain to Iran. The outlined, hollow letters used in our Ornamented Kufic style echo that decorative spirit in a contemporary way, turning letters into shapes that can be filled, coloured or engraved.
How to recognise Ornamented Kufic letters
- Hollow, outlined strokes instead of solid letters.
- Kufic geometry: straight lines, right angles and strong horizontals.
- A decorative, airy look with visible inner space.
- Letters that read as shapes, ideal for large sizes.
Where Ornamented Kufic calligraphy is used
Historically, ornamented Kufic adorned Qur'an chapter headings, ceramic bowls, textiles and architecture. Today outlined Kufic suits posters, tattoo outlines, stencils, colouring pages and signage that needs a decorative Arabic word.
Tips for writing names in Ornamented Kufic
- Outlined names look best large, so increase the font size until the name fills the canvas.
- Use it for names on colouring pages or craft projects that will be filled in by hand.
- Short names with few letters keep the outlines clear and elegant.