Qajar Rahli Qur’an, 1221 AH

This Qajar Rahli Qur’an, dated 1221 AH, represents a refined example of Qur’anic manuscript production and book arts in early 19th-century Iran. Its large Rahli format suggests that the manuscript was intended for formal reading, devotional use, private collection, or preservation within a learned or religious setting.

The manuscript features an elaborately decorated opening page with gold illumination, floral motifs, colored borders, and a symmetrical architectural composition. The Qur’anic text is written in a clear and elegant hand, while the margins appear to include Persian translation or explanatory notes. The use of gold, lapis-toned blue, red, green, and delicate vegetal decoration reflects the visual richness of Qajar manuscript illumination.

The lacquer binding is another notable feature. Lacquer bindings were highly valued in Persian book arts and often served not only as protective covers but also as independent decorative objects. Such bindings were commonly ornamented with floral designs, medallions, framed compositions, or other painted motifs.

This manuscript would be of interest to collectors of Islamic manuscripts, scholars of Qajar art, enthusiasts of Persian book arts, and private collections focused on Qur’anic heritage.