kashida

Kashida refers to an ornamental elongation of certain letters in Arabic calligraphy. This technique involves extending the horizontal stroke of letters such as alif, lam, and dal, often for decorative purposes. The extension can vary in length, from a subtle lengthening to a pronounced stretch that can span significant distances within a composition. Kashida is not merely a random extension; it is carefully integrated into the overall design, contributing to the rhythm, balance, and aesthetic appeal of the calligraphic piece.

The use of kashida is prevalent in various Arabic scripts, including Naskh, Thuluth, and Kufic. It serves to fill space, create visual harmony, and add a sense of dynamism. The deliberate placement and proportion of kashida are crucial for the legibility and beauty of the script. It can connect words or phrases, leading the eye across the page in a fluid manner. Historically, calligraphers employed kashida as a sophisticated tool to imbue their work with elegance and visual interest, transforming functional writing into a form of art. The practice requires a deep understanding of the script's structure and a keen eye for composition.