A calligraphic quatrain, signed by Mir 'Imad al-Hasani, Persia, Safavid, late 16th/early 17th century

Persian manuscript on paper, 6 lines to the page, written in nasta'liq script in black ink within cloud bands against a golf ground decorated with scrolling polychrome flowers, 4 triangular side and corner pieces filled with interlacing split-palmettes, laid down on an album page

"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."

Mir 'Imad is among the most famous nasta'liq calligraphers of the Safavid period, whose hand has since been a model for nasta'liq scribes. He was born in Qazvin, spent sometime in Tabriz, travelled to the Ottoman lands as far as Hijaz, visited Baghdad, Damascus and Aleppo and on his return settled in Isfahan, where he entered the court of Shah 'Abbas I. It is recorded that his fame and the Shah's particular fondness for Mir 'Imad caused jealousy among other calligraphers and resulted in the rumour that he was a Sunni and his murder by the order of the Shah in 1024 AH/1615 AD.