Lot 8
  • 8

A fine Ottoman Qur'an, Turkey, late 16th century

Estimate
35,000 - 40,000 GBP
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Description

Arabic manuscript on paper, 481 leaves, 11 lines to the page written in fine naskhi script in black ink on polished cream paper, single verse divisions marked with gold roundels decorated with coloured dots, sura headings in white thuluth on illuminated panels in colours and gold, textual divisions and sajda marked with the words 'ashra', 'hizb', 'juz' and 'sajda' in margins, one illuminated double page, single illuminated page marking the beginning of Surat al-Naba', brown morocco binding with central medallion and borders of gilt stamped and tooled floral sprays, doublures with ensuite decoration, with flap 

Condition

In good overall condition, some repairs to the opening double page recto reverse, small amounts of staining, binding with some rubbing and cracking to the leather, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

This Qur'an is written on laid paper with two apparent watermarks; one showing an angel in a circle with a star above and the other a lamb in a circle with a trefoil motif above. Both these designs are characteristic of Italian paper dating from the second half of the sixteenth century (see C.M. Briquet, Les Filigranes, Vol.I, Holland, 1968,  pp.18-22 & 44-48).