Antiquities & Fine Art

Antiquities & Fine Art

Lot 132: AN OTTOMAN SCHOOL CALLIGRAPHIC HILYE-I SHARIF, DATED 1322 AH (1904 CE).

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Start price: £400

Estimated price: £500 - £600

Buyer's Premium: 22%

This work on paper is a traditional Ottoman devotional calligraphic panel known as a Hilye-i Sharif, executed in black ink on toned paper. The central composition features an intricate calligram arranged in a five-lobed floral motif, with the name Muhammad at its centre. Above the central arrangement is a prominent Basmala written in Thuluth script. The base of the composition is anchored by a large, horizontal line of calligraphy quoting Quran 68:4, translating as And indeed, you are of a great moral character. The intermediate spaces are filled with densely packed Naskh script providing a textual portrait of the Prophet Muhammad through descriptions of his physical and moral attributes. At the base of the calligraphy, the numerals ١٣٢٢ indicate a date of 1322 AH, which corresponds to 1904 CE. 

Approximately 31 x 25cm


Condition report:

The paper exhibits overall toning and uniform discolouration consistent with its age, though it appears free from significant foxing, tears, or major creasing. The black ink remains dark and clear. The frame shows minor surface scuffs and small areas of wear to the edges and corners.