What is Art of illumination?
Illumination, known as tezhip in Turkish, decorates manuscripts and calligraphy with detailed patterns and colors, often including gold.
Form and practice
1. Origins and scope Manuscript production involved writers, illuminators and binders. UNESCO recognizes related practices across countries, with different styles over time. 2. How it is practised The artist plans layout, measurement and color, sometimes with gold and fine brushes. Geometric and floral motifs interact with readable space; technique matters beyond copied patterns.
Meaning and safeguarding
3. Social meaning and transmission Illumination makes manuscripts visual cultural objects. Apprentices learn drawing, composition, materials and working discipline through practice. 4. Life today and safeguarding Museums and libraries need suitable storage for old sheets. Contemporary workshops can create new work. Digital copies increase access but do not show all physical qualities.