The unique elegance of calligraphy, the dazzling magnificence of illumination and the meticulous craftsmanship of bookbinding art came together in the Mushaf of Istanbul to form the pinnacle of Islamic art. Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy visited the Islamic Civilizations Art Garden in Beykoz, which hosts this rare work, and witnessed a special meeting where art and culture intertwined. The visit, which took place in this place, which reflects the deep aesthetic understanding of Islamic civilization and also includes the peaceful atmosphere of the garden design, offered an inspiring experience for art lovers.
A Rare Work of Art Coming to Life with the Labor of 66 Artists
During the visit, Minister Ersoy was introduced to the magnificent Istanbul Mushaf-ı Şerif, completed under the leadership of calligrapher Hüseyin Kutlu and created with the contributions of exactly 66 valuable artists. In the Garden of Islamic Civilizations Project, the highest level examples of calligraphy, illumination and binding arts were introduced to art lovers in this unique work. In this special meeting hosted by Hüseyin Kutlu, comprehensive information was given on the deep artistic and cultural values carried by the Istanbul Mushaf. Many technical details such as specially selected papers used in the preparation process of the Mushaf, meticulously prepared inks, subtleties of traditional illumination techniques, harmony of page layout and sensitivity in the placement of verses were conveyed to Minister Ersoy in detail. During the meeting, carefully prepared sample bindings of the Mushaf and plates that are distinguished examples of calligraphy were also shown.
Artistic Touch and Continuous Support from the State
Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy also visited the printing workshop in the art garden and witnessed the meticulous production process of the Mushaf up close. In the sincere conversations with the artists, it was emphasized that the Mushaf is not only an aesthetic masterpiece but also an important carrier of a spiritual and cultural heritage. The content of the Mushaf exhibition that opened in the Presidential Complex and attracted great attention was recalled, and the continuity of the Ministry's interest and support for this valuable work was particularly emphasized. In addition to Calligrapher Hüseyin Kutlu, President of the Turkish Manuscripts Institution Dr. Coşkun Yılmaz, Istanbul Mushaf Promotion Coordinator Nuri Aksu and former BİKSAD President Kemal Öztürk also attended this meaningful program, emphasizing once again the importance and value of the work. This visit shed light on the artistic journey of the Istanbul Mushaf, which is embodied with the elegance of calligraphy, the magnificence of illumination and the fineness of binding art, and the importance the state attaches to this rare work.
