A LARGE AND FINE ILLUMINATED QUR'AN, PERSIA, QAJAR, MID-19TH CENTURY

Illuminated Arabic manuscript on paper, 288 leaves, 14 lines per page written in fine naskhi script in black ink, interlinear gold decoration throughout, illuminated gold florets between verses, sura headings written in red thuluth script on gold panels, further text divisions marked in margins, two illuminated double page frontispieces, double page at end with illumination surrounding final Qur'anic text, contemporary gilt shagreen binding

Fair overall condition, some leaves loose, requires conservation, binding damaged on a part of the manuscript, some nibbles to leaf edges, binding rubbed and with abrasions, some stains on pages, 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 illuminated frontispieces in this large Qur'an are of a very high quality and the manuscript must surely have been made for a prince or high-ranking official.