Persian manuscript on paper, 242 leaves plus 2 flyleaves, 17 lines to the page, written in nasta’liq script in black ink, important phrases and keywords picked out in red, catchwords, ff.1a and 2b with a double shamsa in colours and gold, f.2b with opening illuminated headpiece, gilt-stamped brown morocco binding, doublures with polychrome filigree-worked medallions and cornerpieces

In generally good overall condition, wear to binding, one board with lower section crack, doublure filigree with some losses, light waterstaining, pages generally clean and illumination bright, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Qisas al-Anbiya or the Stories of the Prophets is one of the most well-known works of Islamic literature. Incorporating stories from historical and mythological personalities from the Qur’anic traditions, and also from the Rabbinic and Biblical traditions, the style and content of this literary tradition was standardised by the eleventh century.

This is a finely illuminated manuscript and the opening bifolio is beautifully decorated with two illuminated shamsas or sunbursts, executed in deep and vivid colours including blue and gold. This mix of colours is often seen in Ottoman manuscripts and its inclusion here is evidence of the cross-cultural interaction between artists of the Safavid and Ottoman lands.

In this version, the chapters follow a chronological order in similar format to the Bible, starting with the Creation until the story of King Solomon. These are followed by tales of notable figures mentioned in the Qur’an, a number of Christian personalities and the events immediately up to the birth of Muhammad (R. Milstein, K. Rührdanz, & B. Schmitz, Stories of the Prophet: Illustrated Manuscripts of Qisas al-Anbiya, Costa Mesa, 1980, p.8).