Mathematical concepts in Arabic calligraphy: The proportions of the 'Alif.

Mohammad Ali Jalal Yaghan

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0232641

Abstract

The starting point of every study on the proportions of Arabic calligraphy is the letter ʾAlif. It is considered the reference for all other letters. Usually, it is measured in dots. This paper is an attempt to study the mathematical concepts upon which the historical theory of the ʾAlif proportions was based, though not mathematically stated. In order to achieve this, the terms and components of the theory were clearly defined, and analyzed in their textual and visual context, historically, and logically according to our present time. In spite of the frequent use of these terms throughout time, their meanings were not always clear and can accept different interpretations. Some terms, even, indicated different meanings and were loosely used to satisfy different functions, for example, the term “Nuqṭah” (dot). Relating the components of the theory was, also, opened for opinions and interpretations, for example, the number of dots for the ʾAlif was never agreed upon. This paper starts with historical research and analysis. Then, it presents the mathematical expressions of the ʾAlif proportions both numerically and visually. Later, it discusses how they do apply, how other modern interpretations can fit, and how historical misunderstandings can be understood. Finally, it presents the historical account of how to relate other letters to the ʾAlif recommending analyzing their mathematical aspects in future studies.

Highlights

Introduction and definitionsArabic calligraphers used a reed pen sharpened in a certain way resulting in a writing nib that is a short dash
The range of n values that result in P proportions is n = [1,P]
For any n number of points, there are endless possible values for P possible whole number proportions ranging from P = n to P = 1, i.e. P = [n,1]

Summary

Introduction

Arabic calligraphers used a reed pen sharpened in a certain way resulting in a writing nib that is a short dash This gave variety in thickness for different strokes depending on the angle it is placed with and on the hand movement. Calligraphers defined a theory of how to relate all letters to the first letter (theAlif), for which they dedicated the first special part of the theory. This theory was stated textually (though leaving a lot to interpret and induce), and visually both in the manuscripts about calligraphy or other manuscripts as sample writings (again with a space for interpretations). This study is an attempt to study the first part of the theory, which is the proportions of the letterAlif, historically and mathematically

Objectives

Findings

Discussion

Conclusion