calligraphic inscriptions

Evidence

"The features of the mosques of the Maldives adopted from Persian and Arabian models include the decorative elements and calligraphy. The calligraphic decorations are similar to the older Jeli Thuluth of the Mamluk period in Egypt"

Remarks

Calligraphic inscriptions in Maldivian mosques are typically found on timber panels, beams, and posts situated between the mosque walls and the roof structure (p. 316). The script style is identified as being similar to the Jeli Thuluth used during the Mamluk period in Egypt (p. 312). These calligraphic elements reflect the syncretic nature of Maldivian architecture, which adapts features from across the Indian Ocean regions, including the Middle East and South Asia (p. 312, 316).