A large illuminated Qu'ran, Persia, Qajar, 19th century, with lacquer binding signed by Muhammad 'Ali, dated 1220 AH/1805 AD

Arabic and Persian manuscript on paper, 307 leaves plus 5 flyleaves, 14 lines to the page, written in black naskh script in black ink, interlinear Persian translation in red, catchwords, ruled in colours and gold, small illuminated roundels indicating surahs to top left corners of left hand pages, illuminated marginal devices, double page illuminated frontispiece in colours and gold comprising a dense weave of interlacing vines, lacquer binding with floral decoration with calligraphy in the borders, en suite doublures

"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

On the binding: Qur'an, chapters XXIV (al-nur), verse 35 and VII (al-a'raf), verses 54 to most of 56.

The binding doublures bear poems in praise of Fath 'Ali Shah Qajar, expressing the wish that it would be liked by the King, signed by Muhammad 'Ali and dated 1220 AH/1805 AD.