A calligraphic composition in the form of a mihrab, dedicated to Nasir al-Din Shah (r.1848-96), Persia, Qajar, 19th century

ink heightened with gold on paper, mounted on card, 3 lines of text surrounding the composition in thuluth script, framed

In good overall condition, small hole to centre of composition, minor stains, minor abrasions to leaf edges, 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."

inscriptions

Qur’an inscriptions from various surahs and in the top line of the inner band:
al-Sultan Ibn al-Sultan Nasir al-Din Shah Qajar
'may God make his sovereignty eternal'

This highly inventive calligraphic composition uses an archaic style of square Kufic script arranged in the form of a mihrab in a very distinctive manner. Only three other examples of this design are known including a page sold in these rooms as part of the Stuart Cary Welch Collection, Part One, lot 148 (attributed to the Deccan, circa 1800). See also A. Welch 1979, no.88, pp.198-9, and James 1988, no.56, pp.174-5. The use of a mihrab form, which acts as the architectural focus of prayer, is an appropriate form for a Qur'anic calligraphic compositon, although Anthony Welch notes that the composition may represent a stylised arrow (A. Welch 1979, p.198).