A Qur'an leaf in Kufic script on vellum, North Africa or Near East, 9th century AD

text: surah al-'araf (VII), part of verse 157 to part of verse 160
Arabic manuscript on vellum, 13 lines to the page, written in elongated Kufic script in black ink, vocalisation marked by red dots

Sir Howard Hodgkin, C.H., C.B.E., London (b.1932)
Acquired in 1968

In fair overall condition, large water stain to upper section, 3 inch tear to right hand centre edge, other losses to leaf edge, verso text faded, 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."

Although not from the same manuscript, the present leaf, bearing thirteen lines of a smaller size, can be compared to another Kufic Qur'an leaf in the Nasser D. Khalili Collection (Déroche 1992, p.68. no.20). In both instances, red dots indicating the vocalisation, and certain letter forms (including an angular lam/alif construction, shallow 'ayns, and abbreviated terminal forms of lam and nun), suggest that this manuscript was produced during the ninth century.