Unkown - Dala'il al-Khayrat [with original case] - 1800

An absolute dream for the serious top collector of exclusive Islamic art and rare manuscripts!

With great pride offered: a rare, centuries-old and completely hand-written Islamic manuscript of the Dala'il al-Khayrat (the famous collection of prayers and praises for the Prophet Mohammed, assembled by Al-Jazuli).

This masterwork was produced in North Africa (Maghreb region) in the early 19th century and is in remarkably complete condition.

Why is this lot a unique opportunity for your collection?
• Includes Original Leather Carrying Case (Mahfaza): This manuscript comes with its highly rare, original leather protective case. The case is very characteristic and richly adorned with thick, braided ceremonial purple cords, loops and buttons. These kinds of bags have almost always been lost over the centuries; a complete two-part full set like this is an absolute rarity on the market!
• Stunning Maghrebi Illumination: The book contains breathtaking, hand-painted geometric miniatures. Notice the sublime circular calligraphy (the sunray motif) and the refined braidwork in gold, royal blue, red and ochre. The chapters open with richly decorated frames.
• Gorgeous Maghrebi Script: The text is hand-written in a beautiful, characteristic Maghrebi-Andalusian script on thick, sturdy paper. Important passages, names and headings are beautifully accented with contrasting red, blue and gold ink.
• Luxurious Leather Spine: The book itself is bound in a splendid, original dark brown leather spine with refined gold stamping, a central medallion and floral corner ornaments.

Provenance & Condition Report:
This unique manuscript has been acquired from a family that has kept the object for generations as a cherished and protected heirloom within the family. Thanks to this careful, private provenance, the highly fragile leather carrying case has been preserved with the manuscript after all these centuries.

Given its great age, this complete set is in a beautiful, authentic antique state. The leather carrying case shows a splendid historical patina with clear signs of aging: the cover on one side shows wear and is somewhat thinner, but remains a completely solid piece. There are also scattered, historic holes in the leather from bookworms visible (fully inactive). All of this attests to the high age and authenticity of the piece. The manuscript itself is superbly conserved: the paper block is thick, sturdy and clean with minimal spots. The leather cover is firmly attached and the gold stamps are still wonderfully bright. View the extensive photo series for a precise personal impression.

Do not miss this unique opportunity to add a tangible and complete piece of Islamic history to your collection!