A comparative study of ketabat format of nastaligh in the callgraphic style of Jafar Tabrizi, Mir Emad and Mohammad Reza Kalhor

Nastaliq is the most significant script invented by the Iranians which beauties have appeared in various forms. This script has partly evolved in the context of the transcription. In regard to this, transcription became a particular format among others which understanding its characteristics are essential to recognize the basics of the calligraphy. Thus the aim of this research is to understand the factors which affected the transcription styles of Jafar Baysonghory, Mir Emad and Mirza Mohammad Reza Kalhor who played a significant role in formularizing and developing of the Nastaliq script in three important eras of Persian history, including the Timurid, Safavid and Qajar dynasties. The main research question is; what are the visual characteristics of the transcription style of each of these calligraphers? Which factors can be described as influential elements on them? This research is conducted using descriptive-analytical method based on library sources and observation of the collected works. Comparison of the works indicates that factors such as the pen putting angle, manner of setting dots, and arranging the letters and long letters (keshide) have led to formation of the unique styles in transcription by these three calligraphers. Consequently, it can be said that due to the combination of the above mentioned factors in the calligraphy style of Jafar Baysonghory, the lines are inclined toward the horizontal axis, while they are inclined toward the vertical axis in Kalhor's transcription, and there is a favorable balance in both horizontal and vertical axes of line in Mir Emad's transcription.