Persian manuscript on paper, 10 leaves, 5 remargined, approx. 25 lines to the page, written in nasta'liq script in black ink, the opening and following page within cloud bands against a gold ground, f.1 with an illuminated headpiece in colours and gold, ruled in blue, red and gold, colophon page with leafy gold foliage in the interstices, 9 heading panels with text in red against gold, in gilt-wood frame

In generally good overall condition, 5 leaves remargined, some creasing, minor stains and smudges, 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."

The ten present leaves originate from a the same manuscript as the two illustrated pages in the following lot. The illuminated heading represents the opening of Nizami's Makhzan al-asrar, whilst the colophon page is the end of Nizami's Sharafnameh, the book to which the illustrations of lot 255 would once have belonged.