Reqaa Script

In the case of calligraphy, the
Riq’a script can be considered as the epitome of elegance of the art. This script originated from the Arabic noun “ruq’a” which translates to mean a patch or piece of cloth and has a rather interesting history as well as a certain appeal. In this article, the author will discuss the history, development, as well as importance of Riq’a script to explain why it has become the most popular script for handwriting in the Arab region.

Riq’a script has originated from the Naskh and Thuluth scripts. Its name of Riq’a was derived from the tradition of writing it on pieces of paper that where typically used in presenting petitions to the royalty. Thus, over the course of time, Riq’a script developed in multiple directions and obtained specific features that distinguished it from the preceding scripts.

Riq’a script is slightly simpler than Thuluth script as the letters are comparatively smaller and contain more curves. They are closer to Thuluth in style but the lettering is much more compressed. The script has rounded and highly compact letters with short horizontal strokes. More to the point, the letter alif used in the Riq’a style is never written with barbed heads which makes this style even more attractive.

Thanks to its features, Riq’a script was widely known and highly appreciated by Ottoman calligraphers. Shaykh Hamdullah al-Amasi was one of the prominent contributors of Naskh who contributed a lot in refining the script. Thus under his command Riq’a script developed and improvements were made to it that enhanced its status as a preferred style among the calligraphers.

Riq’a script is still a subject of interest of calligraphers and other people interested in it even to the present day. It has a friendly and balanced form and can be used for diverse purposes. Thus, Riq’a script is widely used in official documents and literature, as well as in artwork and other creative projects throughout the Arab world. There are a number of reasons as to why it is popular such as; it is easily readable, it is less stiff, and it also has a very rich history.

Thus, learning Riq’a script does not only involve physical and mechanical ability, but also the understanding and passion for calligraphy. Calligraphers pay a lot of attention to the smooth lines and the right proportions that characterize this script. Every line has its purpose and conveys feelings, and the general impression is rather classy. The beauty of Riq’a script is that it provides words with style and at the same time, gives a feeling of art.

In the light of global trends toward digitization, people are in desperate need of demonstrating and valuing the non-digital art. Riq’a script is one of the significant components of the Arab culture, and thus, it should be sustained. Thus, we not only promote the appreciation of the aesthetics and the history of Riq’a script but also encourage the young calligraphers to continue the legacy.

To sum up, Riq’a script is an example of the Oriental genius of the Arabic writing in its calligraphic aspect. Originally developed from Naskh and Thuluth scripts, Ottoman calligraphers’ adaptation, and the modern use all make it popular now. Thus, the ornamental aspect of Riq’a script is not only in the graphic design but also in the historical and cultural connotations of the script. Thus, by nurturing and cherishing this wonderful script, we pay tribute to the past and guarantee the script’s presence in the future.