Abu’l-Qasim al-Shatibi, Qasida al-Shatibi, signed by 'Ali ibn Sultan Muhammad al-Harawi al-Qari, Mecca, dated 1000 AH/1591 AD

Arabic manuscript on paper of various colours, 85 leaves, plus 4 flyleaves, 15 lines to the page, written in neat naskh script in black ink, key words picked out in red, catchwords, margins ruled in black and gold, opening with illuminated headpiece in colours and gold, later Ottoman binding with gold tooled cartouches and rope-work borders, with flap

In generally good overall condition, binding with wear and tears to flap, pages generally clean, pages slightly trimmed to fit binding, occasional mild stains, 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."

A two-page note written by the scribe who wrote the present manuscript contains the fact that the Qur’an had been read according to Shatibiyyah tradition, which goes back to the Prophet, to various named Shaykhs in the Holy Mosque in Mecca in mid-Safar 1005 AH (first decade of October 1596).