An illuminated calligraphic diploma (ijazeh), signed by al-Sayyid ‘Ali, known as al-Fardi, Turkey, Edirne, Ottoman, dated 1226 AH/1811 AD

Arabic manuscript on two adjunctive paper panels, upper panel composed of one line in bold black thuluth, 8 diagonal lines in black naskh within a polychrome and gold cartouche on gold ground and with side floral decoration, 2 lines beneath in black naskh, the lower panel with 10 lines in neat black naskh, sentences interspersed with gold pointed rosettes, ruled in gold and red

In good condition, the borders are probably later added, the calligraphy neat and crisp, with only minor smudges and minor losses to the illumination, brightness and colours maintained and bright, 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."

This delicate ijazeh is signed by al-Sayyid ‘Ali known as al-Fardi, and bears a long list of witnesses who have certified it: al-Sayyid Mustafa al-Hajj son of the Shaykh Tawfiqi, student of ‘Uthman Efendi, al-Hajj Muhammad Sadiq, Mustafa al-Rashad, ‘Ali al-Rashid, Muhammad al-‘Awni, ‘Uthman al-Nazifi, Mustafa known as al-Khulusi, Ahmad known as al-Rushdi, al-Hafiz Muhammad al-Ra’if, Muhammad known as ‘Ashqi, Ibrahim al-Bawwab, Yusuf known as ‘Ata, Muhammad Fana’i, and Muhammad al-Wahdi. It was certified on 1 Rajab 1226 (22 July 1811 AD) in Edirne.