An Illuminated Ottoman Dala'il Al-Khayrat, Copied by Mustafa Halimi, Turkey, Dated 1209 AH/1794 AD

Arabic manuscript on paper, 82 leaves plus 3 flyleaves, 13 lines to the page, written in naskh script in black ink, verses separated by segmented florets and roundels pointed in white, orange and blue, margins ruled in black and gold, white thuluth script written on gold heading panels, catchwords, iluminated marginal devices, finely illuminated opening floral headpiece in colours and gold, two double page illustrations of Mecca and Medina in watercolours, framed with gold borders, a further illuminated headpiece on gold ground, dark red morocco binding gilt-stamped with central medallions of interlacing flowers with ropework border, with flap

In good overall condition, ink bold and illumination bright, few minor smudges and stains, very small repair to a few leaves, spine and flap restored, 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."

Mustafa Halimi studied calligraphy under the supervision of Mustafa Kutahi (d.1780), better known as Sheikh-zadah, and was celebrated for his mastery in naskh script. He is among the leading Ottoman calligraphers who lived in the second half of the eighteenth century.

A further Dala'il al-Khayrat signed by Mustafa Halimi sold in these rooms 25 April 2012, lot 433.