Master Calligrapher Sheikh Muhammed Abdulaziz al-Rifā’ī (Aziz Efendi)

This book is about the eminent Ottoman calligrapher, Sheikh Muhammed Abdulaziz al-Rifā’ī known in his immediate circles as “Aziz Efendi” (1872-1934), who worked in Istanbul and Cairo, excelled in all Islamic scripts, gave ijaza to over 150 students from all over the world who attended his school in Cairo, wrote numerous Quran copies, prayer books, plates and panels. The book, prepared by Prof. Dr. Muhittin Serin and translated to English and Arabic under IRCICA’s supervision, presents the artistic journey of the calligrapher based on documentary evidence and offers a fascinating journey through numerous examples from his works. The book’s sections about his life and his career are followed by detailed chapters about his works, their locations in museums, mosques, mausolea, and various collections. It will be valuable addition to library collections around the world about the Islamic calligraphy art, Ottoman styles in particular, and important calligraphers.