SHARAF AL-DIN ABU 'ABDULLAH MUHAMMAD IBN HASSAN AL-BUSIRI (D.1296-97 AD), QASIDA AL-BURDA, COPIED BY 'ADID 'ABD IBN 'ABDULLAH AL-MUSTAFAWI, TURKEY, OTTOMAN, DATED 859 AH/1454-55 AD |

Arabic manuscript on paper, 42 leaves, plus 1 fly-leaf, 7 lines to the page, the first, middle and last written in elegant black muhaqqaq script later outlined in gold, the intervening lines in neat naskh, ruled in red, in brown Ottoman leather binding with a central stamped gilt medallion, with flap

In generally good condition, minor stains and smudges, the gold around the muhaqqaq is a later addition, the first page possibly a replacement, occasional trace of restoration to the paper and traces of tape, 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."

The original title of this work was Al-kawakib al-durriya fī madh khayr al-bariya, but is more commonly known as Qasida al-Burda ('Poem of the Mantle'). Written in praise of the Prophet Muhammad, the composition was very popular in Mamluk and early Ottoman period. For a similar copy, presenting the poem with the same layout, dated 896 AH/1490-91 AD and attributed to Ottoman Turkey, see Sotheby's London, 26 April 2017, lot 8.