Khelrtva

A khelrtva (Georgian: ხელრთვა, lit. 'graced by hand')^[a] is a Georgian calligraphic joined-up^[1] style signature, monogram or seal, originally used by the Georgian monarchs, queens consort, patriarchs, royalty and nobility,^[2][3][4] universally used since the early eleventh century.^[5]

Khelrtva signatures were written in one of the three Georgian scripts, mostly in Nuskhuri and Mkhedruli scripts, though the monograms particularly the royal ones were designed in Asomtavruli script. Every Georgian monarch had their own individual khelrtva and was known as საუფლოჲ ხელი^[6] (sauploy kheli) literally meaning 'Hand of the Lord'. The tradition of khelrtvas is still in use in Georgia.^[7]