Arabic manuscript on marbled paper, 8 and 11 lines to the page in black nasta'liq script, mounted on card

In reasonably good overall condition, slight losses to leaf edges, some rubbing, 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 present two leaves belong to a calligraphic album known to have been produced in 1658 in Kashmir. A further leaf, which like these ones, comprises both the use of marbled paper as well as Shi'a text in praise of 'Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet, is in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (inv.no.1986.109.2, see Schimmel 1992, p.41, fig.50). There was certainly an enthusiasm for marbled paper in seventeenth-century India, attested by a number of drawings and calligraphies using the technique, originating from both the Deccan and Kashmir (for a drawing of an 'Emaciated Horse Harassed by Birds' on marbled paper, see Sotheby's London, The Stuart Cary Welch Collection, Part One, 6 April 2011, lot 114).