A MINIATURE QUR'AN WRITTEN ON "GAZELLE" SKIN, PERSIA, QAJAR, 19TH CENTURY

Arabic manuscript on vellum, 280 leaves, 16 lines per page written in minute naskhi script in black ink on thin parchment with interlinear gold decoration throughout, small gold roundels between verses, margins ruled in gold, sura headings in written in red thuluth script on gold panels, illuminated juz' and hizb markers in margins, three finely illuminated polychrome opening double pages, contemporary floral lacquer binding

Published in 1400 Years of  Islamic Art, 1981, no. 21

Good overall condition, binding with a small loss to one corner of the ebru, a few minor stains, otherwise good, 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."

The uncommon use of delicate, paper-thin vellum in Qur'an production of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries appears to have been restricted to only those of the highest calibre, as witnessed in the present example. Comparable manuscripts have been sold in these rooms 9 April 2008, lot 26; 28 April 1993, lot 109 and 15 October 1984, lot 281.