Title: Illuminated Ottoman Qur'an. Manuscript on Paper, Circa 1800
Condition: Good
A richly illuminated early 19th century Ottoman Qur’an written by hand on a type of neatly coated paper, almost similar to vellum in texture, likely produced in Istanbul, which was the largest production site for Koranic manuscripts.
This Qur’an is written in black naskh font throughout in a 15-line format, and illuminated throughout, every leaf bordered in a triple black line, and framed in gold. There are over 100 Sura headings in red on a gold background. Each Juz’ begins with an illuminated rosette of flowering designs, for each chapter. There are gold roundel verse markers throughout. The opening bifolio is a decorated double page of flowering designs against gold.
The last leaf, including the colophon and scribe information, is lacking. The Quran itself is textually complete, all surahs from Al-Fatihah to Al-Nas being present.
One manuscript in 12mo, 301 of 302 leaves
This manuscript is in good shape, having been rebound in a black cloth flap binding. The opening bifolio is badly damaged, the first leaf having been re-mounted. The last leaf is slightly torn to the inner margin. One bifolio of leaves is cleanly detached. A gathering of five leaves close to the center of the manuscript seems to be heavily worn and stained compared to the others, the corners being worn away. There is soiling and staining throughout.