The painting “Names of Allah” is executed in the style of calligraphic inscriptions. In Islamic religious tradition there is a strict prohibition against the depiction of living beings. This feature is called aniconism, literally, “denial of image”. It is explained through the belief in one God and the suppression of idolatry. Aniconism prompted the development of Arabic calligraphy and ornamental art.
The painting by Ibrahim-Khalil Supyanov depicts the names-definitions of the Almighty that are mentioned in the Holy Scripture of Muslims — the Quran. Allah has 99 names in total — that is why 99 beads are most often found on Muslim prayer beads. In this painting, the artist used only some of the names, the most popular and significant ones. Each name is written in intricate Arabic script, which creates a single art work. The names are arranged chaotically and freely, this emphasizes the unity of Allah in all his names.
The painting by Ibrahim-Khalil Supyanov depicts the names-definitions of the Almighty that are mentioned in the Holy Scripture of Muslims — the Quran. Allah has 99 names in total — that is why 99 beads are most often found on Muslim prayer beads. In this painting, the artist used only some of the names, the most popular and significant ones. Each name is written in intricate Arabic script, which creates a single art work. The names are arranged chaotically and freely, this emphasizes the unity of Allah in all his names.
