Early Safavid Qur'an

Arabic manuscript on verge paper, 342 leaves, regular calligraphy naskh on 12 lines per page, opening with a double illuminated blessing frontispiece, followed by Sura Al-Fatiha with an illuminated frontispiece also. The titles of the suras are calligraphic in blue 'rayh'an' on a cartouche illuminated in gold, with the separations of verses marked by a golden pastille, and floral marginal illuminations in gold and lapish-blue. Leaflets 310 ff. were replaced during the Qajar period. It was also in the 19th century that the margins of six double-page spreads were illuminated.

Original brown morocco binding with embossed and gilt decoration on the outside and inside of both covers.

Iran, first quarter of the 16th century

13,5 x 9 cm



In Safavid Qu'ran, Iran, early 16th century.

Arabic manuscript on paper, 342 ff., 12ll. Of black naskh to the page, two double illuminated frontispieces, surah titles in bleu ray'han on gilded cartouches, verses markers in gold, floral marginal illuminations in gold and lapis. A small part replaced during the 19th century. Original stamped and gilded binding.