Arabic typographic history

Arabic typographic history reflects a rich evolution from early manuscript traditions to modern print and digital forms. Initially written with decorative calligraphy on parchment, the Arabic script was adapted for printing in the 19th century, facing challenges due to its flowing, cursive nature. Early typesetting used elongated, hand-carved wood or metal blocks, gradually transitioning to digital fonts in the late 20th century. Today, Arabic typography balances preserving traditional calligraphy with functional design for contemporary media, incorporating complex ligatures and contextual letter forms. This evolution highlights a continuous effort to harmonize cultural artistry with technological advances.