ISTANBUL — Renowned Iraqi calligrapher Ali Zaman has completed the world’s largest handwritten Quran after six years of meticulous work in Istanbul. The manuscript, which Zaman hopes will remain in Turkiye, stands as a tribute to the nation’s rich Islamic heritage and centuries-old tradition of calligraphy.
The Quran features enormous pages measuring four meters in length and 1.5 meters in width, each spanning approximately three meters when opened. Every page was handwritten with traditional reed pens using the thuluth script, known for its elegant curves and precision.
Born in 1971 in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, Zaman developed a passion for Islamic calligraphy early in life. He left his jewelry profession in 2013 to dedicate himself fully to the sacred art. In 2017, he moved with his family to Istanbul’s Fatih district to pursue this ambitious project.
Working alone in a modest room inside the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque complex, Zaman carefully crafted each letter without modern tools, pausing only for meals and prayers. He described the process as spiritually rewarding, telling Anadolu Agency, “Every letter reflects the soul and effort put into this work.”
Despite facing serious health issues in 2023 that temporarily halted his work, Zaman self-funded the project and completed the Quran, creating a masterpiece that symbolizes his devotion and artistry. His dedication has earned him international recognition, including first prizes in thuluth and naskh scripts across Syria, Malaysia, Iraq, and Turkiye.
Additionally, the Iraqi calligrapher holds an ijazah from esteemed masters and received a Distinction Award at Turkiye’s International Hilye-i Şerif Competition in 2017, presented by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
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Zaman’s achievement demonstrates the enduring significance of traditional Islamic calligraphy and cements his reputation as one of the leading calligraphers in the world. His Quran now serves as both a cultural treasure and a testament to the painstaking dedication of the Iraqi calligrapher.
