Two folios from a Persian manuscript, Persia, Qaraqoyunlu Turkmen, 1460-1480

gouache heightened with gold on paper, each folio with 4 lines of black nasta'liq script above and below the painting, each reverse with 8 diagonal lines of text and 6 side text panels, ruled in gold

In generally good overall condition, some minor areas of waterstaining and rubbing, 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."

Safina-form manuscripts of the type the present two leaves originated from were popular in Timurid Persia. The small amount of available space for the text was ample provision for the highest-quality nasta'liq calligraphers of the day, often accompanied by rigorous and neat stylised illumination as well as illustrations in a simple yet fine manner such as the present two examples. Related folios from the same period are published in Lentz and Lowry 1989, p.202, cat.no.103, whilst a manuscript of poetry in a similar style was sold in these rooms 14 April 2010, lot 28.