My first calligraphy instruction was in Persian (Farsi)* which uses the Arabic script. After the fifth grade we had to pass a major government exam in all subjects in order to complete elementary school and move on with our … Read More
My client had already obtained a tattoo, “Maktoob” (meaning “it is written”), but wanted to embellish and improve the overall design. Working with an existing tattoo can be tricky; I strongly advise against trying to edit (or even worse … Read More
Zoomorphic calligram for a Persian tattoo in Farsi calligraphy: “Better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep.”
آزادى
This is not a new design, nor the first time I am posting it. But my hope for Azadi — freedom — in this world rings stronger than ever. Persian/Farsi calligraphy of the word for Freedom; also the … Read More
My client requested an Arabic tattoo in the shape of the famed Cedar of Lebanon, shown here very nicely inked onto the arm. After I provide you with a custom designed calligraphy tattoo it is very gratifying to see … Read More
A wax seal with your own custom-designed monogram in Persian or Arabic calligraphy adds a touch of Old World class to wedding invitations and wedding favours.
“This too shall pass” This artwork is available as a benefit for Syrian refugee relief: www.palmstone.com/for-syria
This is a print made from an old metal printing plate from Iran, I am guessing c. 1930s. The photo is of Joseph being thrown in the well by his brothers. The story is originally from the Torah, but also … Read More
Ahlan Wa Sahlan: أهلاً وسهلاً
Arabic, Stylized Kufic Script
Traditional Arabic welcome–especially to a home– emphasizing hospitality to strangers. Ahlan—أهلا– is “family,” as in “You’ve come to stay with family,” and sahlanسهلا is flat or open place without obstacles and where … Read More
My writing tools, including quills, reed pens (qalam ney), Chinese brushes, sign painting brush and assorted metal nibs (broad nib, copperplate, quill, wire brush, etc.). These are a sampling of the well-used tools of my daily life as a calligrapher. … Read More
Happy First Day of Spring – No Ruz – Iranian New Year – Vernal Equinox. May the coming year be one of happiness and fulfillment for everyone.
نو روز پيروز
به اميد ديدار Persian calligraphy by S. J. Thomas. www.palmstone.com
Islamic Marriage Certificate with bismallah, Qur’an inscription in Arabic and English and hand painted illuminated border design. Original work by artist calligrapher Stewart J. Thomas. www.palmstone.com
The 11th century poet, Omar Khayyam, says “I am my own, and, what I am, I am / من زان خودم چنان که هستم هستم” Calligraphy and hand painted border by Stewart J. Thomas, www.palmstone.com
Arabic inscription in the form of a hummingbird and a flower. The hummingbird reads as the bismallah “ ” while the flower reads as “Ina lilah wa ina ilahi rajioon” – “إِنَّا لِلّهِ وَإِنَّـا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعونَ”
Calligraphy by S. J. … Read More
This line of poetry from Rumi has been translated as “Sell your cleverness and buy bewilderment.” I prefer “Sell your cleverness and buy be-wonderment.” The Persian says: buy the art of wonder. Calligraphy by Stewart J. Thomas, www.palmstone.com
No Ruz Pirooz. Home-made Iranian style baqlava (baklava) made with almonds, pistachios, cardamom and rose water – served with tea, of course. Happy New Year, and may it be a good one.
“Dance when you are perfectly free” Persian (Farsi) calligraphy by S.J. Thomas. No Ruz Pirooz!
Ayat al-Kursi (āyatu-l-kursī), the 255th verse (ayah) of the second chapter (sura) of the Qur’an, Al-Baqara. To listen to a recitation of this Ayat, along with translation into English, view here. For a description of the symmetry of the language … Read More
Persian names in calligraphy by Stewart J. Thomas, calligrapher. www.palmstone.com
From time to time I like to feature a wonderful work from the masters:
Saki, album miniature, 1609
Reza Abbasi, 1565-1635
A poem of Mawlana Rumi, “Nah man beehodeh gerde koocheh.” If you would like to hear this song sung in the Sufi ecstatic style, here is a link to a rendering by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. The accent is definitely … Read More
