A Manuscript of prayers, copied by Ahmad al-Nayrizi, Persia, Safavid, dated 1112 AH/1700 AD

Arabic manuscript on paper, 18 leaves plus 5 flyleaves, 10 lines to the page, written in Naskh script in black ink within cloud bands reserved against a gold ground, headings in gold, margins ruled in colours and gold, Persian marginal glosses in Nasta'liq script within gold-ground cartouches, opening illuminated headpiece decorated with polychrome flowers against blue and gold grounds, remargined, blue and red leather binding with gilt-stamped floral cartouches

In good overall condition, minor rubbing to spine, slight waterstains to bottom left of end pages, otherwise calligraphy bold and gold bright, 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.
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Ahmad Al-Nayrizi, best known for his distinctively Persian naskh script, was active between 1682 and 1739. Originally from the town of Nayriz in Fars, Nayrizi was one of the most important and prolific calligraphers of the late Safavid period. Shah Sultan Husayn (r.1694-1722) and his court became important patrons of Nayrizi, who is reputed to have commanded large fees for his work; the total income he received over his lifetime is estimated to have reached 60,000 tumans, an incredible sum for the period.

A single-volume Qu'ran by his hand can be found in the Nasser D. Khalili Collection (see Bayani et al [eds.], The Decorated Word, Vol.IV, 1999, vol.IV, p.128, no.53). For the latest work on the calligrapher see: M.H. Semsar, 'Ahmad Nayrizi' The Great Islamic Encylopaedia, vol.VII, Tehran, 1998, pp.100-108 and N.Safwat, The Art of the Pen, Nasser D. Khalili Collection of Islamic Art, 1996, pp.212-13). A further example of his work, Surah Yasin (XXXVI), was sold in these rooms 1 April 2009, lot 11.