A QUR’AN LEAF IN KUFIC SCRIPT ON VELLUM, NORTH AFRICA OR NEAR EAST, 9TH CENTURY AD |

text: surah Saba (XXXIV) v.46 to surah Fatir (XXXV) end of v.2 Arabic manuscript on vellum, 14 lines to the page written in elongated Kufic in dark brown ink, vocalisation in the form of red and green dots, verses separated by small triangular clusters of three gold dots, ‘ashr and khamsa verse markers in the shape of gold and polychrome rosettes, surah heading in gold outlined in darker brown ink

In overall good condition, the left hand side slightly trimmed minor stains, rubbing and some losses of ink, affecting in particular the verso, 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 leaf and the following lot come from the same fine Qur’an whose writing is characterised by a consistent mashq, or 'stretching' of the letter forms. Other leaves from this Qur’an were sold in these rooms, most recently 9 April 2014, lot 17 and 7 October 2015, lot 210.