Artwork Page for Qur'an Manuscript Folio (recto)

Details / Information for Qur'an Manuscript Folio (recto)

Qur'an Manuscript Folio (recto)

1200s–1300s

Southern Spain

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Medium
ink, gold, and color on parchment
Measurements
Sheet: 52.7 x 55.4 cm (20 3/4 x 21 13/16 in.); Text area: 46.5 x 44 cm (18 5/16 x 17 5/16 in.)
Credit Line
Edward L. Whittemore Fund 1933.440.a
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

Description

This page from the “Chapter of Light” (24:59–61) in the Qur'an is written in the monumental script of Islamic Spain and North Africa, known as Maghribi Kufic. Words flow rhythmically with curving flourishes toward the left margin where letters end in almost perfect semicircles, an elegant hallmark that contrasts with the upright shafts. Distinctive markings—vowels in red and diacritics in blue—identify the vocalization of the text, which would have been read or recited aloud to an assembly.
A tan parchment folio features seven lines of sweeping dark brown Arabic calligraphy. The script's deep, arced tails and horizontal strokes are accented by small blue and green dots. Two circular gold medallions with blue and white details are placed on the left side of the text. The folio exhibits slightly frayed, irregular edges. This elegant ink and gold composition emphasizes the flowing, rhythmic quality of the script against the aged parchment background.

Qur'an Manuscript Folio (recto)

1200s–1300s

Southern Spain

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