[Unknown] - Qajar Koran - 1809

A quality manuscript from a damaged Qur’an of the early Qajar dynasty (1794-1925) which had the exact date on the last page of AH1224, or AD 1809/10.

The manuscript contains the Surah and first few verses (1-6) of Chapter 12, Yusuf (Joseph) which introduce the story of Prophet Joseph (Yusuf), described as the "best of stories" [12:3] of the Quran. Revealed during a difficult period in Makkah, these verses serve to reassure Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his followers that divine planning overrides human machinations. The brilliantly coloured cartouche announces the Surah title, with the Bismillah immediately below this formally consecrating the new chapter. The Bismillah (a vital Islamic invocation) is often used at the start of Quranic chapters to seek divine blessing, guidance, and protection.

Then script is strong Iranian naskh, separated by red interlinear Persian translations which provide an explanation to those less familiar with Arabic. This tradition of inter-linear translation is known as trauma, making this a tarsier Quran, designed not only for recitation, but also for comprehension and teaching. It explains vocabulary, contextualises narrative and occasionally notes theological subtleties. Multiple simple roundels in gold, the whole being framed in a thick gold line.

Additional scholarly thoughts are contained in the decorative leaf shaped 'buta' (representing the tree of life) in the margins. Placing it besides the opening verses of Surah Yusuf is particularly resonant of flourishing through faith.

The condition is generally very good.

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