Riyadh: Syrian calligrapher Mohammad Maher Hadri spent 12 years meticulously weaving and inscribing verses of the Holy Quran onto fabric, creating a work of art that earned him the distinction of being the first to calligraph Quranic words in this innovative manner, in addition to his detailed hand-painted Quran using brush and pen.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Hadri, who is hosted at the Riyadh International Book Fair 2025, began this project at the end of the last millennium, in 1998, and completed it in 2010-a journey that drew on his expertise in calligraphy and the art of weaving.
The Riyadh Book Fair guest inscribed the entire Quran onto fabric, dividing it into sections measuring 80 cm in length and 60 cm in width, ultimately producing 12 volumes weighing nearly 200 kilograms. The result is a striking work of art that vividly conveys beauty while deepening the appreciation for the care of the Holy Quran.
He began showcasing his work in 2012 at international book fairs, where it was met with great acclaim.
'I had long aspired to present my work in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which has now been realized this year through my participation in the Riyadh International Book Fair 2025, organized by the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission,' he said.
Regarding his early journey in Arabic calligraphy, the Syrian calligrapher stated that he began by copying the Holy Quran, through which he learned the craft of Arabic calligraphy and its application on paper, before transferring it onto fabric and compiling it into a bound volume over an eight-year period.
'I have exhibited this copy of the Holy Quran at numerous fairs, where it received significant attention and admiration from visitors,' he said.
He noted that his experience of writing and weaving the Quran onto fabric also included inscribing 40 Hadiths, several of Luqman the Wise's counsels, and a selection of Quranic supplications (dua).