SOLD: One of the Smallest Known Koran Manuscripts in Octagonal Miniature Format, Dated 1564

Koran. [Manuscript]. Persia, dated 972 H. [=1564]. 407 leaves. - Manuscript on wax paper in octagonal shape, each with 14 lines. With an illuminated double-paged Unwan (=decorated opening page) and rosette decoration on each page. Very small format: 55 x 53 mm.Original red leather binding with rich (later intensified) gilding, in a chiselled silver case, probably from the second half of the 18th century (binding discreetly consolidated, the last two leaves restored).

The Muslim ban on images drove certain artistic skills, namely calligraphy and ornamentation, to lonely heights in the Orient. This is particularly the case with this Persian manuscript from 1564: as far as we know, there is only one comparable piece, and it is in the library of the Aga Khan.

This octagonal codex, just over 5 centimetres in diameter, contains the entire Koran. Opened by a double-page unwan illuminated in gold and colour, it offers a unique calligraphic tour de force that puts the work on a par with the highest quality oriental miniature manuscripts of the 15th and 16th centuries. The jewel has been preserved in its 18th century silver capsule in very fine condition.

This manuscript is lot 6 in our new catalogue 90 “Wunderkammer”, available in our Online Shop.

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