Panel with calligraphy, second half of 20th century, 32 3/4 x 17 1/4 in. (83.19 x 43.82 cm), Polyester, metallic thread, Morocco, 20th century, In Islamic Africa, calligraphy is not only found on writing boards and paper, but also on blades, ceramics, and textiles. Woven into this cloth are two verses from chapters 21 and 96 from the Quran. On the right is 'Taught man what he did not know,' which refers to Gods gift of knowledge to humans. The left one, in which God addresses the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), reads: 'We did not send you except as a mercy for humankind.' Such striking textiles would be hung in private homes, mosques, or Quranic schools.