HAFIZ (D.1389-90), DIWAN, COPIED BY MUHAMMAD HUSAYN IBN SALIM OF TABRIZ, PERSIA, ISFAHAN, QAJAR, DATED 1293 AH/1876 AD |

Persian manuscript on paper, 274 leaves plus 1 fly-leaf, 11 lines to the page written in shikasteh in black ink, within two columns, ruled in red, blue, green and gold, the margins with extensive commentaries in black nasta’liq, cartouches throughout the text enclosing gold flowers, in contemporaneous lacquer binding

In good condition, the illumination bright, minor smudges and stains, minor cracks to the bindings, 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 lacquered covers are signed by Nasrullah al-Imami, the Chief-Painter (naqqash-bashi). Nasrullah is recorded by Karimzadeh Tabrizi and his recorded work includes pen boxes, covers and mirror cases are dated between 1251 AH/1835-36 AD and 1293 AH/1876-77 AD, and his earliest work with the title naqqash-bashi is dated 1290 AH/1873-74 AD, which indicates he must have received it either from Nasir al-Din Shah or the Governor of Isfahan Zill al-Sultan (M.A. Karimzadeh Tabrizi, The Lives & Art of Old Painters of Iran, vol.3, London, 1991, pp.1384-7).