Priceless Islamic Manuscripts to Be Auctioned at Sotheby’s

Sotheby’s London is set to host its biannual “Arts of the Islamic World & India” auction on April 29, featuring an exceptional collection of Islamic manuscripts and ceramic pieces that span over 500 years, The Jerusalem Post reported. This sale will showcase the artistic traditions of Islamic dynasties from Spain to Indonesia, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the Islamic world.

Among the significant items is a large Quranic manuscript page from Egypt, dating back to the mid-14th century during the Mamluk era. This exquisite page, estimated to sell for between £6,000 and £8,000, features verses from Surah Al-Hijr written in Muhaqqaq script with black ink. The page is adorned with gold and black borders and intricate floral motifs, exemplifying the high-quality manuscript production of the period.

Additionally, the auction will include a 14th-century miniature decorated Quran from Iraq, consisting of 174 leaves. This manuscript is notable for its 17 lines of text written in Naskh script, with gold chapter titles and restrained decorations that emphasize the skill of the calligrapher. The cover is made of leather, stamped in gold, while the pages are bordered in gold and black, showcasing the elegance and artistry of Islamic manuscript traditions.