About
Inspired by the Aya Sophia, recreate the striking calligraphy roundels by the Ottoman luminary Kazasker Mustafa İzzet Efendi (1901-1876). Practice the jali (large) thuluth script and the techniques employed by Kazasker Efendi to write the roundels in pen and ink, an art form rooted in principles passed down through generations.
Through hands-on sessions develop your own smaller calligraphy roundels, featuring the sacred name of Allah or the name of the Prophet Muhammad. The Aya Sophia stands as an icon of global architecture. The historic roundels were meticulously placed during the 19th Century repairs. The mastery embedded in these monumental 7.5- metre roundels has left an indelible mark in the records of calligraphy history. The eight calligraphy roundels bear the names of Allah, the Prophet Muhammad, his grandsons Hasan and Hussein, and the four companions – all adorned with gold leaf against a rich dark background.
Key Information
Who is this course for?
All levels of ability and experience are welcome. You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our programmes.
No knowledge of written or spoken Arabic is required. Participants with prior experience of calligraphy can attend. If you would like to learn about Arabic letters before the course, The Arabic Alphabet: How to Read & Write It by Nicholas Awde and Samano Putros is an excellent resource.
What days/times do I attend?
Monday – Friday, 4 – 8 August 2025, 10:00 – 16:30
How many students can attend?
14 people
Where will this course take place?
This course will take place at our studios at The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts, 19-22 Charlotte Road, London EC2A 3SG.
What should I bring to class?
All materials are provided on this course.
Wear comfortable clothing that you do not mind getting slightly messy. Avoid wearing baggy clothing (especially sleeves), loose jewellery, high heels or open-toed shoes.
FAQs
Do you offer concessions?
Yes, we offer concessions for full-time students and Seniors/60+.
Concessions cannot be applied in retrospect. To receive a concession, please apply via our online form. We will then send you a discount code to use when booking your space.
Terms & Conditions
The School reserves the right to discontinue or suspend a Course up to fourteen (14) calendar days before the advertised start date of the Course. This course requires a minimum number of enrollments to run.
The School may take and use images of you and/or your work for course advertisement and social media purposes.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Tutor Biography
Gulnaz Mahboob is a London based calligrapher and tutor. She is part of the 500 year chain of Ottoman calligraphers. She began her classical training in Islamic calligraphy in 2005 in Istanbul with the renowned Turkish grand master, Hasan Çelebi.
In 2012 she was awarded the Ijazah in the thuluth and naskh scripts. Having received her Ijazet she has become part of a continuum of more than 10 centuries of calligraphic tradition and is thus a transmitter of this living tradition in the UK. Her background in anthropology offers fresh perspective on what is a dynamic bond that is established between the letters, the student, the master and the repetitive practices.
