Qur'an section, Iran, 19th century Small manuscript on paper, 15 folios of 11 lines of text in naskhi Arabic in gold ink on a midnight-blue background, the sura titles inscribed in white ink in a rectangular cartouche with gold outlines. The margins are illuminated in gold and polychrome with hatayi floral decoration incorporating saz flowers and leaves, and the verses are separated by gilded discs. The manuscript is introduced by a sarlow frontispiece decorated with floral scrolls and surmounted by a gilded cartouche inscribed with the title of Sura Ya-Sin in red letters. The manuscript contains five non-consecutive Koranic suras: Sura Ya-Sin 36, al-Fath 48, al-Wâqi'a 56, al-Mulk 67, an-Naba 78. Bound in black leather with stamped decoration of a four-lobed fleuron enhanced with gold, the edges covered with red leather bands. 14.4 x 9.5 cm Stains, small edge tears, minor restorations, wear, small handwritten notes added later, binding replaced and restored. This small manuscript, richly illuminated and calligraphed in gold, is a rare and beautiful example of the luxurious production of religious manuscripts in the Qâjâr period. The midnight-blue background of the paper on which the Qur'anic verses were copied makes them perfectly legible and enhances their sacredness. It is reminiscent of ancient imperial traditions, ensuring continuity with the prestigious Islamic dynasties that preceded the Shahs' rule, all the way back to the Abbasids, the originators of the famous "Blue Koran", to name but the most famous. Although entirely anonymous, the perfect mastery of calligraphy and illumination, as well as the preciousness of the manuscript, suggest the hand of a great calligrapher in the service of a high-ranking patron. Another Qâjâr Qur'an section copied in gold on a blue background sold at Sotheby's, London, on October 23, 2024, lot 149, and a complete Qur'an of the same type sold on May 6, 2025 at Plakas, London, lot 20.