Divan of Waqif, India, Peshawar, copied by Muhammad Rajab, dated 1221 AH/1806 AD

Persian manuscript on paper, 451 leaves plus 4 flyleaves, 15 lines to the page, written in neat nasta'liq script in black ink, headings within floral panels heightened with gold, illuminated double page frontispiece in colours and gold, chinoiserie cloudbands filling the outer margins, red morocco binding, with flap

Major Nawab Ahmad Nawaz Khan Saduzai MBE, Nawab of Dera, 25 April 1921
Commissioned by Amir Habibullah Khan Sadozi, son of the deceased prime minister Rahmatullah

In fair overall condition, binding worn and requires repair, some leaves loose, pages generally clean, colours bright, 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 poet with the pen-name Waqif is Shaykh Nur al-‘Ayn Lahuri son of Qazi Amanatullah (d.1781). Neither the patron Amir Habibullah Khan Sadozi, nor the scribe Muhammad Rajab are identified, as manuscripts from Peshawar are rare.