Unknown - Hafez-Diwan - 1820

A magnificent Hafez-Diwan manuscript bi-folio, of Kashmiri origin, copied from the Divan written by Mohammed Shama od-din Hafez (1329-1399). Few poets have shaped the soul of Persian civilisation as profoundly as Hafez of Shiraz, whose C14th ghazals (a poetic form originating from 7th-century Arabic poetry, consisting of five to fifteen independent, rhyming couplets (sher) that explore themes of longing, mystical love, and melancholy). Revered from Istanbul to Delhi, his Diwan was copied by the finest calligraphers as an act both of devotion and artistic mastery.

This exquisite bi-folio, written on burnished paper, exemplifies the pinnacle of manuscript production. The text rendered in elegant nasta'liq script, floats on lustrous gold-illuminated groups alive with densely interlaced arabesque scrollwork - sinus vines, palmettes and blossoming lotuses executed with precision. iDelicate polychrome floral borders in crimson and gilt frame each panel. The script is broken by horizontal floral bands separating out key themes within the Dewan. There is some minor wormholing in the centre of the left folio only visible when held to the light.

This is a beautifully preserved testament to Hafez's enduring influence and the calligrapher's skills.

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