Calligraphy from a Ghazal of Badr al-Din Hilali Jaghata’i - Faqir Ali

A fine example of Persian Nasta'liq calligraphy by Faqir Ali, featuring verses from a ghazal by Badr al-Din Hilali Jaghata’i, framed by illuminated borders.

This work displays the Nasta'liq script, a style of Persian calligraphy that emerged in the 14th century. Faqir Ali, active during the 16th and early 17th centuries, demonstrates the fluid, rhythmic qualities characteristic of this tradition. The text consists of verses from a ghazal by the poet Badr al-Din Hilali Jaghata’i. The script is arranged in diagonal lines, a common practice in Persian manuscript production to create a sense of movement across the page.

The central panel is framed by an illuminated border featuring floral motifs painted in gold and blue. These decorative elements provide a visual counterpoint to the black ink of the calligraphy. The paper itself is treated with a subtle, light-coloured wash, allowing the dark characters to remain the primary focus. The composition reflects the high standards of book arts in the Safavid period, where the integration of text and ornamentation was a central concern for master calligraphers and illuminators.

Faqir Ali’s hand is precise, showing the characteristic contrast between thick and thin strokes that defines Nasta'liq. The balance between the slanted lines of text and the rectangular frame creates a structured yet dynamic visual experience. This piece represents the intersection of literary tradition and visual craft, where the written word is elevated through careful layout and refined decorative borders. The use of gold leaf in the surrounding margins indicates that this page was likely part of a high-status manuscript, intended for a discerning patron or a royal library collection. The preservation of such works allows for an examination of the technical skills required to produce these manuscripts, from the preparation of the paper to the application of pigments and gold.