[Unknown] - Miniature Qur'an - 1920-1930

Collectible miniature - complete Qur'an – attributed to Hans Steinbrener – early 20th century – 37 × 25 mm

Description
Extremely small and beautifully produced miniature Qur'an from the early 20th century, attributed to the well-known publisher Hans Steinbrener in Vimperk (Winterberg), then Bohemia/Czechoslovakia.

The booklet measures only about 37 × 25 mm and contains the Arabic Qur'anic text in extremely fine miniature printing. The interior features richly decorated pages, framing, and ornamental chapter headings.

Particularly attractive is the original dark binding with gold-colored, embossed floral and arabesque decoration. The spine/edge is also extensively decorated. The binding is equipped with the characteristic leather clasp strap.

Date, construction, clasp, binding decoration and execution of the interior show strong similarities with documented miniature Qur'ans issued by Hans Steinbrener in Vimperk/Winterberg. Similar Steinbrener editions from the early decades of the 20th century are known in the same size.

On one of the inner pages there is also an old pencil note “358/2”, presumably an earlier inventory, collection, or trade marking. It has been left untouched intentionally.

The copy is in authentic, used condition, with age and wear appropriate to its age. The wear to the binding and gilding contributes to its historical character.

See the photos for an accurate impression of condition and workmanship.

A special and very small, highly sought-after collectible at the crossroads of book history, miniature books and Islamic culture, appealing to collectors of old Qur'ans and rare religious works.

Dating: ca. 1910–1930, early 20th century
Attribution: Hans Steinbrener, Vimperk/Winterberg
Language: Arabic
Size: ca. 37 × 25 mm
Edition/Illustration: printed miniature Qur'an, decorated binding with clasp