Near East, Islamic, Abbasid Period, ca. 9th to 12th century CE. An incredibly rare vellum manuscript page from an Islamic religious text, likely the Qur'an (Koran), featuring seventeen lines of Kufic script handwritten on each side. The calligraphy is penned in black on the beige-hued vellum and is punctuated with crimson, yellow, and green ink that adds a hint of vibrancy to the text. Considered the beginning of manuscript illumination and decoration, these punctuation marks were first added to Kufic Qur'ans in the 9th and 10th centuries to aid in the pronunciation and recitation of the text; thus, increasing its visual and auditory aesthetic. Reciting the Qur'an correctly is a highly regarded art in the Islamic faith and is called "tajwid," an Arabic term that literally translates to "beautification." The Abbasid period produced Qur’ans with horizontal pages to match the style of script used. A wonderful example! Size: 8.75" L x 5.8" W (22.2 cm x 14.7 cm)

Provenance: private Washington, USA, collection, acquired before 2000

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#163046

Loss to outer corners as shown. Tearing, creasing to edges. Perforations along inner periphery are likely from the original binding. Two minor perforations through center of text. Staining and discoloration of paper. Some smudging and fading of ink.