An Introduction to Different Persian and Arabic calligraphies, undated (13th century A. H.), undated (19th century)
Scope and Contents
Samples of Persian and Arabic calligraphy, written for Lord John Elphinstone. The calligrapher has used a text praising the dedicatee and repeats it using 40 different calligraphic styles, some of which are rare. Headings and rulings are in red, with main text in black, with some gold interlinear illuminating and frame detail.
The caligraphic styles are numbered in red ink. Each folio bears writing on one side only (some on the recto and some on the verso).
Dates
- Creation: undated (13th century A. H.)
- Creation: undated (19th century)
Language of Materials
Persian
Conditions Governing Access
Open. Please contact the repository in advance.
Full Extent
1 volume
Custodial History
This manuscript was written for Lord John Elphinstone (1807-1860) and was part of Carberry Tower Library.
Immediate Source of Acquisition
Purchased (via Rankine) at Dowell's sale of the Carberry Tower Library, 20-21 July 1961, lot 280 (23 volumes, £52).
Physical Description
In a marbled paper binding, with reinforced margins (very fragile), includes 41 folios, four flyleaves and one endleaf. Dimensions 151 by 102 mm. The written area averages 115 by 66 mm but with much variation, especially in height.
Technique
Repository Details
Part of the University of Edinburgh Library Heritage Collections Repository
Centre for Research Collections
University of Edinburgh Main Library
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Edinburgh EH8 9LJ Scotland
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