QOM, Iran -- Iranian artist Farshad Malkenia is carving from wood what he says will be the world's largest Qoran, and is also taking on a version of the Christian Gospels.

The sculptor has already completed five of what will be a 110-page rendition of the 114-Sura (page) Muslim holy book in a project that will take him six years.

The pages are mounted on large wooden frames he proudly displays in his workshop in the holy city of Qom, where he works with his wife.

The work is a lilting flow of Arabic text, using Persian calligraphy, with pages framed by flowery motifs.

"It is the love of God, the love of art, the love of beauty that led me into this project," he said in an interview with AFP, adding that he is a self-taught artist, having studied French literature at university.

Once completed, the Qoran "Will definitely be the largest in the world made of wood," added Malkenia.

It will tower over most readers at 2.4 meters (eight feet), with pages 1.2 meters (four feet) wide and weighing 70 kilograms (154 pounds) each. And at 4.5 meters (15 feet) thick, it will be too bulky for any bookshelf.

Malkenia said he has already received two orders from Gulf countries, but won't say where.

He is hoping to assemble a group of 10 artists to help him complete the book, which in terms of labor and materials will cost about 600,000 dollars, according to the Iranian heritage organization. As for his rendition of the Gospels, Malkenia said the the first page will be finished in a month. The book will be 2.7 meters (nine feet) high and 1.5 meters (five feet) wide."

In Iran, religious art is not confined to Islam, and intricate woodwork can be seen portraying images from the Bible, such as the last supper.