The Prophetic Portrait in Blue by Hamid Aytaç (Framed)

The Prophetic Portrait in Blue by Hamid Aytaç (Framed)

$164.99

This exquisite Hilya Sharif, a masterpiece by renowned artist Hamid Aytac, beautifully embodies the noble qualities and characteristics of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Originating in the Ottoman era, the Hilya Sharif has long held a place of honor in Muslim homes worldwide, serving as a constant reminder of the Prophet’s ﷺ blessed attributes.

This meticulously crafted piece features: the Basmala at its apex; a central disc elegantly inscribed with a detailed description of the Prophet ﷺ; four smaller surrounding discs showcasing the names of the four rightly-guided caliphs; the Qur’anic verse 68:4, which also describes the Prophet ﷺ; and the continuation of the hadith, concluding with heartfelt prayers and blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ.

The Hilya Sharif is designed to be displayed in a prominent location, inspiring contemplation and frequent blessings upon Allah’s Messenger ﷺ whenever it is beheld. This artwork by Hamd Aytac is not only a stunning piece of calligraphy but also a profound expression of devotion and a beautiful addition to any home.

Background

What is the Hilya Sharif?

The Hilya Sharif, or “The Noble Description,” is an artistic expression of love and respect for Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him) through textual portrayals of his appearance and character. This practice honors the Prophet while adhering to Islamic tradition. Originating from accounts documented by the Prophet’s companions, the Hilya tradition evolved from simple descriptions to elaborate artistic expressions.

The Hilya’s artistic development peaked in the Ottoman era. More than just a historical artifact or beautiful artwork, the Hilya represents a universal expression of love and respect for Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him), transcending time and space. The Hilya Sharif endures as a symbol of Islamic art and spirituality. It demonstrates how art can connect individuals to the divine, encouraging reflection on the Prophet’s life and teachings. Continuing to inspire and guide believers, the Hilya Sharif serves as an emblem of devotion, beautifully weaving together art, history, and spiritual contemplation within Islamic culture.

Delving Deeper into its Meanings

At the top of the Hilya, the Basmala—the sacred phrase “Bismillahirrahmanirrahim” (“In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful”)—is prominently inscribed. This invocation serves as both a blessing and a profound reminder of God’s omnipresence and boundless mercy, setting a spiritual tone for the entire artwork.

This is the Heart of the Hilya and contains the Prophetic Portrait from the narration of Sayyidna Ali ibn Abi Talib (May Allah be please with him) who has been reported to have said:

“The Prophet (peace be upon him) was neither excessively tall nor extremely short. He was of medium stature among his people. His hair was neither curly nor completely straight. He had a large head and a round face. His complexion was fair with a reddish tinge. His eyes were large and black, with long eyelashes. His joints were strong, and his body was lean. He had a line of fine hair running from his chest to his navel, but the rest of his body was almost hairless. He had thick palms and feet. When he walked, he walked with strength, as if descending a slope. When he turned, he turned his whole body. Between his shoulders was the Seal of Prophethood, and he was the seal of the prophets.“

Surrounding the Prophetic Portrait is the names of the The Four Rightly Guided Caliphs—Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali (may Allah be pleased with them)—were the immediate successors of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). They led the Muslim community with justice, wisdom, and devotion, establishing the foundations of the early Prophetic community.

The Hilya also features a central verse of the Quran describing the Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) from Sura al Anbiya, which reads:

And We have not sent you but as mercy for all the worlds.

The final piece of the Hilya contains common prayers, verses, praises or descriptions of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

A Closer Look at This Unique Piece

Yasin Art is Committed to Delivering High-Quality Art, Crafted With Care and a Focus on Excellence.

Meet The Artist

Hamid Aytac

1891–1982

Born in Diyarbakır as Şeyh Musa Azmî, Hamid Aytac was a legendary Turkish calligrapher. His lineage traced back to the calligrapher Âdem-i Âmidî. After studying at local schools, he moved to Istanbul in 1906 to attend the School of Law but left due to financial struggles after his father’s death. He then pursued art, studying calligraphy and painting at the School of Fine Arts. He learned rık‘a, sülüs, celî, nesih, tuğra, and ta’lik scripts from masters like Nazîf Bey, Kâmil Akdik, and İsma’il Hakkî Altunbezer, though he never formally received certification (icazet).
In 1908, he became a painting and calligraphy teacher at the Gülşen-i Ma’ârif School. He later worked at the Rüsûmât Printing House and the Mekteb-i Harbiyye Printing House before being appointed chief calligrapher at the General Staff. Around this time, he adopted the pen name “Hâmid.” After resigning post-armistice, he opened a calligraphy studio in Cağaloğlu and took over a printing house, which he operated with his wife, Âdile Hanım.
After his divorce in 1960, he closed his shop and retreated to a modest room in Reşîd Efendi Han, dedicating himself entirely to calligraphy until his death in 1982. Among his many students was Hasan Çelebi, a world-renowned calligrapher who has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Islamic calligraphy globally. Aytac’s legacy endures as one of Turkey’s most influential calligraphers, and his impact lives on through his students.

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