Rare Miniature Qur’an Manuscript Attracts Attention at Abu Dhabi Book Fair

Rare Miniature Qur’an Manuscript Attracts Attention at Abu Dhabi Book Fair
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A rare miniature copy of the Holy Qur’an, dating back nearly 130 years, has drawn significant interest from visitors at the 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, where it was displayed as an example of the development of Islamic calligraphy, printing and Qur’anic arts over time.

According to Al Khaleej, the rare manuscript was exhibited as part of the fair’s efforts to showcase the artistic heritage of ancient Qur’anic manuscripts and highlight the connection between religious knowledge and artistic craftsmanship.

The miniature Qur’an was printed in Glasgow, Scotland, in the late 1890s and was offered for sale at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair for £2,750.

Produced by David Bryce, the edition is considered one of the most notable miniature books in the world and was among the earliest European miniature Qur’an editions printed in Glasgow during the late 19th century. Bryce produced miniature Qur’ans for Muslim readers in Europe, the Indian subcontinent, East Africa and the Middle East.

The edition combined technical innovation with commercial success. It was originally sold inside a protective metal locket containing a magnifying glass, allowing readers to view the extremely small text. Although miniature Qur’ans had previously been produced using lithography in India and the Ottoman Empire during the 19th century, Bryce’s edition achieved wider popularity.

The displayed copy measures just 26 × 19 millimeters and was printed in Arabic using the photolithography technique. It retains its original red leather binding decorated with gold embellishments and is preserved inside its original metal locket, reflecting the format in which these miniature Qur’ans were first produced.

The 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair was held from September 13 to 18, 2026, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).