Mongolian calligraphy

It is the classical Mongolian script technique of handwriting which comprises ninety letters connected vertically by continuous strokes to create words.

Mongolian calligraphy is a calligraphic art form originating from the Mongolian language that is practiced in Mongolia.

The centuries-old tradition of Mongolian calligraphy derives from the vertical Mongolian script, which has a remarkable calligraphic quality in itself. Each letter can be written in three ways, depending on where it appears in the word.

The initial form is simple, and the final and medial forms have much more flourish. This results in sweeping and swooping strokes that give even the most prosaic text life and movement, making it seem alive and full of motion when it opens and closes.

It is composed of six major strokes: head, tooth, stem, stomach, bow, and tail. Among the many uses of this meticulous writing are for official letters, invitations, diplomatic correspondence, and love letters; for a shorthand type of writing known as synchronic writing; and for the folding of emblems, logos, coins, and stamps.

Traditionally, mentors selected the best students to train as calligraphers. Over the course of five to eight years, mentoring students and teachers formed bonds for life and continue to help each other become better artists. As social transformation has increased, urbanization has increased, and the number of young calligraphers has dropped significantly.

In order to protect and revitalize Mongolian script and calligraphy, special measures are needed to attract young people to this art form. A small community of just over twenty young calligraphers is currently trained by just three middle-aged scholars. Cost of living increases has made it impossible for mentors to impart their knowledge to the younger generation without compensation.

However, Mongolian calligraphy uses the traditional Mongolian bichig script, despite its use of Cyrillic orthography during the Communism era. There has been a significant decline in young calligraphers due to the effects of urbanization, technological advancement, and globalization. Students and teachers establish lifelong bonds and encourage one another's work.

Currently, Mongolian calligraphy, a form of the indigenous art of great significance, is rather rare. In recent years, as some artists have developed an interest and are becoming increasingly involved with creating this artwork, it has become a bit more prevalent. A comprehensive description of its nature and significance is still required before this artwork can be made available for both the Mongolian people at home and those abroad who are interested.

References

(https://ich.unesco.org/en/USL/mongolian-calligraphy-00873) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongolian_calligraphy) (http://calligraphy-expo.com/en/aboutcalligraphy/from_the_depth_of_ages/mongolian-calligraphy-in-contemporary-art) (https://www.endangeredalphabets.com/2020/12/03/mongolian-calligraphy/)