Qur'an Anthology, China, second half of the 18th century, Ink, opaque watercolour, and gold on paper, AKM824

Qur'an Anthology, China, second half of the 18th century, Ink, opaque watercolour, and gold on paper, AKM824

"Glory to God" (subhan Allah) appears on the right-hand page as an ornate Arabic letter form upon a delicate floral background. The sweeping letter forms and particularly thin uprights show how the monumental thuluth script was adapted by Chinese scribes into the distinctively local sini form. The manuscript contains a compilation of Qur'anic chapters (surat) and illuminations, including the decorative roundel at left featuring a traditional Chinese symbol of good luck at its centre. Together with the Hebrew Bible at left, this book epitomizes the artistry of the scribe, as word and image become one.

Dimensions: 27.5 x 20 cm

Material: Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper

AKM824

China

Photographer credit: Courtesy of the Aga Khan Museum

second half of the 18th century

Arabic

Aga Khan Museum

Aga Khan Museum

Qur'an Anthology