Two leaves from an illuminated manuscript of Nizami's Khamsa, Persia or India, early 17th century

ink and gouache on paper heightened with gold, 13 to 25 lines to the page, written horizontally and diagonally in 4 columns in small nasta'liq script in black ink, marginal decoration comprising animals, dragons and birds amid foliage, each reverse with 25 lines of text

In fairly good overall condition, minor losses and tears to leaf edges, minor stains, creases 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."

These two leaves, each with finely-illustrated and illuminated borders, originate from a Khamsa of Nizami of the seventeenth century. The folio with the diagonal text is from the Makhzan al-Asrar, from the section on justice and governance, whilst including the heading for the story of the Sasanian king Nushirvan and his encounter with the hooting owls on a ruined building. The other leaf is from the Sharafnameh, the section in which Iskander captures the citadel of Darband.