An Illuminated Ottoman Dala'il Al- Khayrat and Salawat, copied by Mustafa Halimi, Turkey, Dated 1198 AH/1783 AD

Arabic manuscript on polished paper, 89 leaves plus 2 flyleaves, 13 lines to the page, written in neat Naskh script in black ink, verses separated by punched gold florets, catchwords, margins ruled in gold, illuminated marginal devices and heading panels, opening finely illuminated floral headpiece in colours and gold, double page illustration of Mecca and Medina in watercolours, framed within gold borders punched with cintamani motifs, 2 further illuminated headpieces and colophon, red morocco binding with tooled and gilt decoration comprising central medallions and cornerpieces of interlacing split palmettes

In good overall condition, a few smudges but illumination brights and calligraphy generally bold, spine repaired and binding slightly rubbed, 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

Mustafa Halimi studied callgraphy 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.