Artwork Page for Bookbinding for a Qur'an

Details / Information for Bookbinding for a Qur'an

Bookbinding for a Qur'an

1460–1500
Measurements
Overall: 36 x 81.6 cm (14 3/16 x 32 1/8 in.)
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view

Description

Islamic book covers generally have a triangular flap attached to the rear cover of the binding which is tucked under the front cover to protect the outside edge of the pages. The outer covers of this particularly elaborate example feature panels with Qur'anic inscriptions, interlace patterns, and a central medallion filled with floral and arabesque designs. The inner covers offer a superb example of leather openwork, a leather technique that originated in northeastern Iran in the 1400s.
A dark-brown leather bookbinding is laid open, its panels joined horizontally. Intricate gold geometric and floral patterns adorn the covers, featuring central diamond-shaped medallions. A light-brown, worn spine separates the two main rectangular sections. To the right, a narrow vertical panel displays gold script within a rectangular border. The binding terminates in a tapered, five-sided flap decorated with matching gold stars and linear designs.

Bookbinding for a Qur'an

1460–1500

Turkey, Istanbul, Ottoman period, 15th century

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