[Unknown] - Qajar Koran - 1809

One of the best and most decorative Qajari manuscripts we have seen from the early Qajar dynasty (1794-1925) which had the exact date on the last page of AH1224, or AD 1809/10, containing scripture from three Surahs, with two illuminated headers with superb colouring and gold leaf marginals with commentary.

The folio contains the final verses of chapter 93, Surah Ad-Dhuha (The Morning Sunlight); all of chapter 94, Surah Ash-Sharh (Uplifting the Heart) and the beginning verses of chapter 95, Surah At-Tin (The Fig). The final verses of chapter 93, a Meccan chapter, instruct Prophet Muhammad (and by extension, all believers) on how to treat the vulnerable after reminding him of Allah's blessings: "So as for the orphan, do not oppress [him]. And as for the petitioner, do not repel [him]. But as for the favor of your Lord, report it". These verses emphasize kindness to orphans, respectful treatment for those seeking help (physical or spiritual), and openly sharing Allah's blessings as an act of gratitude, reinforcing themes of compassion, dignity, and thankfulness. Chapter 94 reminds the Prophet of more blessings to reassure him go God's continued support in the city of Mecca and that with every hardship comes ease, urging dedication to worship afterward. The first 6 verses of chapter 95 take significant natural and historical symbols (fig, olive, Mount Sinai, Mecca) to emphasize that Allah created humanity in the best form, physically and intellectually, capable of great heights but also prone to decline; the verses highlight this divine creation and then question what causes disbelief in the Day of Judgment, affirming Allah as the best judge for those who believe and do good, promising unending reward, while others face a return to the lowest state.

Then script is strong Iranian naskh, separated by red interlinear Persian translations and multiple simple roundels in gold, the whole being framed in a thick gold line. Additional scholarly thoughts are contained in the decorative script in leaf shape symbology in the margins of the front and reverse folios. The condition is very good.

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