Majnun arrives at Shirin's tent, illustrated leaf from a Persian manuscript of Nizam's Khamsa, Persia, Turkman, 1498-9

gouache on paper, 7 lines of text written in neat nasta'liq script in black ink, verso with 21 lines of text written in 4 columns of nasta'liq script, double intercolumnal rules in gold, inner margins ruled in blue and gold, headings written in thuluth script in blue on a ground of scrolling foliage in columns and gold

In overall good condition, waterstaining mostly restricted to outer margins, some retouching, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This illustrated leaf originates from a manuscript of Nizami's Khamsa dated A.H. 904/A.D. 1498-9, with twenty-five miniatures but apparently lacking 11 leaves.  For other illustrated leaves sold in these rooms see 15th October 2003, lot 23; 30th April 2003, lots 27-28; and 25th April 2002, lots 35-36.  The original manuscript was sold in these rooms, 11th December 1968, lot 149.