Abu Bakr Muhammad Ibn Zakariya al-Razi (865-925 AD), Kitab Sirr al-Asrar gi Sana't al-Kimiya'a ('Book of Mystery of Mysteries of the Manufacture of Alchemy'), Near East, Probably Egypt, Mamluk, dated 909 AH/1503 AD

Arabic manuscript on cream paper, 235 leaves, 13 lines to the page, written in Naskh script, key words picked out in red, contemporary brown morocco binding with a tooled geometric design punched with gold dots, doublures with pressure-moulded interlocking stellar motifs, flap with tooled crescent moon

"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."

Abu Bakr Muhammad Ibn Zakariya al-Razi (865-925 AD) was a famous alchemist and physician of the Middle Ages, and the founder of iatro-chemistry. He was born and studied in Rayy, and worked in Baghdad. He was also a philosopher and mathematician, known in Medieval Europe by the names of 'Rhazes' and  'Abubater'.