The study delves into Islamic metal artwork inscriptions, a vital facet of calligraphy's evolution. Examining pieces from medieval Islamic periods in Iran's major museums, it explores works employing Kufic, Thuluth, and Naskh scripts. Its aim is to analyze calligraphic styles, letter designs, and content within medieval metal art. Inscriptions underwent classification based on script, design, and adornments. Kufic scripts revealed two variations: an earlier version maintained uniform thickness using a single pen, featuring leafy, knotted, or human-headed styles. Later, a prevalent post-12th century variation saw letters adopting varied thicknesses, following word context. This Kufic type employed geometric patterns, favoring circular, leafy, and knotted forms. Naskh, a rigid script in official documents, is lauded for its simplicity and legibility due to concise lettering, common in informational texts. Sülüs, an early Islamic script akin to Kufic, stands out with slender, elongated letters, evolving post-Seljuk era with diverse motifs. Animated letter inscriptions notably associate Alif and Lam endings with human or animal heads, nearly bordering on pictorial representation. These inscriptions epitomize the fusion of writing, miniatures, and contemporary thought in the realm of metal art.

Islamic metalwork, Inscription, Kufi, Naskh, Thuluth.