Unknown - Qur'an manuscript leaf - 1580

A single illuminated manuscript folio page from a 16th Century Safaivid Qur'an with an illuminated new chapter heading and an illuminated marginal marking the end of the previous chapter. The folio contains the final verses from the Medinian chapter 48, Al-Fath (The Triumph) together with the illuminated chapter heading and first three verses of the Medinian chapter 49, Al-Hujurat (The Private Quarters). Combined there are 13 lines of script in naskh black ink, with the Surah containing white thuluth script within a gold cartouche. The colour is very fine even after all this time. Gold aya mark the individual verses.

The final two verses of chapter 48 describe the Prophet Muhammad as Allah's messenger, who was sent with guidance and the religion of truth so it would prevail over all other religions. Verse 29 describes the believers as being firm against non-believers but compassionate with one another, with their faces showing the marks of prostration from prayer. It also uses the metaphor of a plant that grows strong to show how believers will cause dismay to disbelievers, and promises forgiveness and a great reward to those who believe and do righteous deeds.

The first verses of chapter 49 being the instruction of the reader in matters of conduct toward the Prophet Mohammad. Specifically they instruct the reader not to raise your voices above the voice of the Prophet and to 'watch your tongue'.

This is a quality folio in very good condition for its age.

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