Mirak al-Mu'tabar wa'l Hak, copied by Muhammad Ibn Muhammad Ibn Muhammad al-Zujaji al-Ash'ari al-Hanafi, Turkey, Ottoman, late 19th century, in a green presentation binding with the tughra of Sultan Abdulhamid II (r.1876-1909)

Arabic manuscript on paper, 60 leaves plus 5 flyleaves, illuminated headings in colours and gold, approximately 17 lines per page in fine ta'liq script, gold rosettes between verses and marginal rules in ink and gold, green velvet pressure-moulded binding

"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."

The title of the manuscript 'The Esteemed Ascent to Heaven and the Pilgrimage' indicates its contents: an account of the mirak or 'Night Journey' of The Prophet and the stages and stations of the Muslim pilgrimage, the Hajj.

The sumptuous green velvet binding with the tughra of the Ottoman sultan confirms that this was a presentation manuscript given by Abdulhamid II to a member of the upper classes as a gift. The bindings of the personal books of Abdulhamid II, mostly in the Yildiz Palace Library, are usually red velvet and bear his monogram AH.