Elements of Islamic Art in Our Silsila Nikahnamas
Our Nikahnamas are more than just contracts—they are timeless works of art inspired by centuries of Islamic tradition. Each design element carries a deep cultural and spiritual significance, blending beauty with purpose. Here are some of the artistic features we incorporate, along with their Mughal, Turkish and Persian influences:
1. Zencerek Border (بافت)
Turkish/Persian Name: Zencerek/Baft (meaning “woven” or “crafted”).
Design Use: The intricately designed inner braided border frames the text, providing structure and elegance.
Significance: This element emphasizes the sanctity of the Nikah by symbolizing completeness and unity. It is present in many of our designs, such as the Motia, Fatiha and Ikhlas.
2. The Tig (تیغ)
Turkish/Persian Name: Tig (meaning “blade” or “flame”).
Significance: A delicate, flame-like flourish that is on the outer edges of many of our nikah contracts adds energy and flow to the layout.
Design Use: The tig is present in many of our designs such as the Sakina, Fatiha, Lapis, and Ikhlas.
3. Stylized Flowers
Significance: These are ornamental blooms scattered throughout the design, evoking the beauty of a garden.Symbolizes the fleeting nature of life and the eternal beauty of Allah’s creation.
Design Use: Flowers are used in almost all of our nikahnamas!
4. Miniature-Style Clouds, Trees, and Plants
Significance: Soft, swirling cloud shapes frame the text, bringing softness to the design, representing divine mystery and the blessings of the heavens. Delicate trees and plants evoke the gardens of paradise, a reflection of the blessings of marriage.
Design Use: Our Firdaws nikahnama features miniature style clouds, trees and plants!
5. The Shamsa (شمسه)"
Significance: The Shamsa, meaning "little sun," is a dazzling starburst motif that radiates from the center of many Islamic manuscripts and artworks. In our waladnama birth certificates, the Shamsa serves as a beautiful focal point, symbolizing light, guidance, and divine blessings.
Design Use: We use the shamsa motif in many of our waladnama birth certificates as well as our Rosette nikahnama.
Infusing Tradition Into Every Nikahnama
Each element in our Nikahnamas is chosen with care, blending traditional Islamic art styles with a modern touch.
