Mohammed Ehsai (Iranian, b. 1939)

Undoubtedly one of the most prolific and talented calligraphers of the modern era, Iranian artist Mohamed Ehsai transforms the written word into an iconic object of veneration, mixing the deep rooted tradition of Islamic calligraphy with modern day design techniques.

In the present seminal work from 1975, Ehsai's striking depiction of jet-black semi-abstract calligraphy ripples fluidly against a terracotta toned background. The broad and fluid brushstrokes create a visual play that renders each of the letters, although somewhat legible, devoid of their original meaning. Ehsai's canvas is laden with a deep-rooted sense of spiritualism, his use of calligraphy serves as a reference to the crucial form of religious and aesthetic expression that has come to dominate the Middle Eastern world since the birth of Islam. Playing on these traditions, Ehsai channels his aesthetic impulse into creating a bold and pure composition that affirms calligraphy in a modern context.

Ehsai's use of a monochromatic colour palette, that has come to be a signature of his works, highlights a sense of duality in his works and in doing so provides a commentary on the contrasts between the divine and the earthly, the traditional and the contemporary and dark and light. A true master of his craft, Ehsai's monumental intertwining script incorporates an aesthetic curvilinear harmony that dazzles before us.