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The Portico Library Main Room Side View

Here is an hdr photograph taken from inside The Portico Library. This is a famous private library located in the middle of the city centre. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK. (taken with kind permission of the administration). Here is an hdr photograph taken from inside The Portico Library. This is a famous private library located in the middle of the city centre. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK. (taken with kind permission of the administration)

Old hardcover books flying on background

Old hardcover books flying on background

Illuminated Manuscript Koran, Binding, Walters Art Museum Ms. W.552, Upper board outside

This horizontal-format manuscript on parchment is an illuminated fragment of the Qur'an, covering chapter 6 (Sūrat al-anʿām), the end of verse 54, through chapter 9 (Sūrat al-tawbah), verse 79. The fragment probably dates to the third century AH / ninth CE. The text is written in an Early Abbasid (Kufic) script in dark brown ink and vocalized with red dots. Chapter headings are in gold ink, and verse markers in the shape of a stylized letter hā' and rosettes with colored dots indicate groups of five and ten verses. The green goatskin binding with gold-painted central floral design and cornerpieces is thirteenth century AH / nineteenth CE or later. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Museum Website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1528. This horizontal-format manuscript on parchment is an illuminated fragment of the Qur'an, covering chapter 6 (Sūrat al-anʿām), the end of verse 54, through chapter 9 (Sūrat al-tawbah), verse 79. The fragment probably dates to the third century AH / ninth CE. The text is written in an Early Abbasid (Kufic) script in dark brown ink and vocalized with red dots. Chapter headings are in gold ink, and verse markers in the shape of a stylized letter hā' and rosettes with colored dots indicate groups of five and ten verses. The green goatskin binding with gold-painted central floral design and cornerpieces is thirteenth century AH / nineteenth CE or later. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Museum Website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1528

Illuminated Manuscript depicting Babur's defeat of the Afghans at the Jagdalek Pass, from Baburnamah, Walters Art Museum, Ms.

Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759. Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759

Illuminated Manuscript of Yusuf and Zulayka, Binding, Walters Art Museum Ms. W.644, Lower board inside

A leaf from an anonymous copy of the famous story of Joseph and the Potypha's wife (Yūsuf va Zulaykhā) by Nūr al-Dīn Jāmī (d.898 AH / 1492 CE) executed in the 10th AH / 16th CE century and containing three illustrations. Here Zulayka travels to the betrothed chosen for her by her father. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=30608. A leaf from an anonymous copy of the famous story of Joseph and the Potypha's wife (Yūsuf va Zulaykhā) by Nūr al-Dīn Jāmī (d.898 AH / 1492 CE) executed in the 10th AH / 16th CE century and containing three illustrations. Here Zulayka travels to the betrothed chosen for her by her father. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=30608

Koran, Text page with marginal illumination, Walters Manuscript W.555, fol. 12b

This illuminated fragment of the Qur'an contains chapter 25 (Sūrat al-furqān), verses 21-32 and 39-78; chapter 26 (Sūrat al-shuʿarāʾ); and chapter 27 (Sūrat al-naml), up to verse 40. It probably dates to the late fifth century AH / eleventh CE or early sixth century AH / twelfth CE. The text is written in the New Abbasid (broken cursive) style in black ink and is vocalized with red dots and blue circles, the latter for sukūn. Single verses are separated by illuminated rosettes, and groups of five verses are indicated by the letter hāʾ in the form of a teardrop in the margins. Marginal medallions are also used for larger verse groups. The black leather binding is modern. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=11860. This illuminated fragment of the Qur'an contains chapter 25 (Sūrat al-furqān), verses 21-32 and 39-78; chapter 26 (Sūrat al-shuʿarāʾ); and chapter 27 (Sūrat al-naml), up to verse 40. It probably dates to the late fifth century AH / eleventh CE or early sixth century AH / twelfth CE. The text is written in the New Abbasid (broken cursive) style in black ink and is vocalized with red dots and blue circles, the latter for sukūn. Single verses are separated by illuminated rosettes, and groups of five verses are indicated by the letter hāʾ in the form of a teardrop in the margins. Marginal medallions are also used for larger verse groups. The black leather binding is modern. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=11860

The battle of Sultan Ḥusayn Mīrzā against Sultan Masʿūd Mīrzā at Hiṣṣār in the winter of 901 AH/1495 CE, from Illumin

Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759. Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759

Illuminated Manuscript, Map of the Algerian coast from the port of Bejaia (Bajāyah) as far as Annaba (Balad al-ʿU

Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan SÃ¼leyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195. Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan SÃ¼leyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195

Smithills Hall Library

Here is an hdr photograph taken from the library inside Smithills Hall. Located in Bolton, Greater Manchester, England, UK. (permission for photography and use of tripod was allowed). Here is an hdr photograph taken from the library inside Smithills Hall. Located in Bolton, Greater Manchester, England, UK. (permission for photography and use of tripod was allowed)

Old vintage books and broken bulb isolated on white background

Old vintage books and broken bulb isolated on white background

Birds of Hindustan, such as crows, magpies, and cuckoos, that live beside water, and alligators (Memoirs of Babur), Walt

Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, BÄburnÄmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), áº’ahÄ«r al-DÄ«n Muá¸¥ammad BÄbur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759. Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, BÄburnÄmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), áº’ahÄ«r al-DÄ«n Muá¸¥ammad BÄbur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759

The Portico Library Reading Room

Here is an hdr photograph taken from the reading room inside The Portico Library. This is a famous private library located in the middle of the city centre. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK. (taken with kind permission of the administration). Here is an hdr photograph taken from the reading room inside The Portico Library. This is a famous private library located in the middle of the city centre. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK. (taken with kind permission of the administration)

Vase with snowdrops on old books and a vintage stool against a r

Vase with snowdrops on old books and a vintage stool against a r

Old legal lawyers books

Old legal lawyers books

Row of old books on dark background banner

Row of old books on dark background banner

Drawn beautiful dragon sitting on the stack of old books

Drawn beautiful dragon sitting on the stack of old books

The John Rylands Library Doorway

Here is an hdr photograph taken of a doorway inside The John Rylands Library. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK. Here is an hdr photograph taken of a doorway inside The John Rylands Library. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK.

Having opened the gates of the Murghīnān fortress, ʿAlī Dūst Ṭaghāyī is paying homage to Babur, from Illuminated manuscri

Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759. Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759

Gladstone's Library Central View

Here is an hdr photograph taken from Gladestone's Library. Located in Hawarden, Wales, UK. (taken with kind permission from the administration). Here is an hdr photograph taken from Gladestone's Library. Located in Hawarden, Wales, UK. (taken with kind permission from the administration).

The Anatolian coast facing the island of Cos (Stancho, İstanköy) from Book on Navigation, Walters Art Museum Ms. W.658

Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195. Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195

The John Rylands Library Reading Room Enclosure

Here is an hdr photograph taken from the enclosure in the reading room inside The John Rylands Library. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK. Here is an hdr photograph taken from the enclosure in the reading room inside The John Rylands Library. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK.

Illuminated Manuscript, Map of the eastern Mediterranean coast as far as the city of Beirut (Lebanon) from Book on Navig

Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195. Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195

Collection of poems (divan), King Solomon seated on his throne carried by demons, Walters Manuscript W.636, fol. 125a

An illustrated copy of the collection of poems (Dīvān) by Shams al-Dīn Muḥammad Ḥāfiz al-Shīrāzī who flourished in the 7th AH / 14th CE century. The present codex was copied by Mullā Muḥammad Qāsim Hamadānī in 1210 AH /1796 CE in India and contains 48 miniatures. An illustrated copy of the collection of poems (Dīvān) by Shams al-Dīn Muḥammad Ḥāfiz al-Shīrāzī who flourished in the 7th AH / 14th CE century. The present codex was copied by Mullā Muḥammad Qāsim Hamadānī in 1210 AH /1796 CE in India and contains 48 miniatures.

Old books being read by candle light

Old books being read by candle light

Illuminated Manuscript, Map of Sea of Marmara, Bosporus strait and the Black Sea from Book on Navigation, Walters Art Museum Ms. W

Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195. Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195

Five poems (quintet), Şeyh Nizameddin saving the life of Hüsrev-i Hindi, Walters Manuscript W.666, fol. 37a

This is an illuminated and illustrated copy of the Ḫamse (quintet) of the Ottoman Turkish poet and scholar ʿAṭāʾullāh bin Yaḥyá ʿAṭāʾī (d. 1044 AH / 1634 CE). Although different in content, this work takes its inspiration from the famous Persian Khamsah of Niẓāmī Ganjavī (d. 605 AH / 1209 CE) and the Khamsah of Amīr Khusraw Dihlavī (d. 725 AH / 1325 CE). This Ottoman copy of ʿAṭāʾī's work ends with a portion of his Dīvān (fols. 142b-151b) instead of the fifth poem (mesnevi), Ḥilyet ül-efkār. The text, written in nastaʿlīq script, was copied by Ḫeyrullah Ḫeyrī Çāvuşzade in 1133 AH / 1721 CE. There are thirty-eight illustrations, and illuminated incipits introduce the different poems (fols. 1b, 22b, 63b, 107b, and 142b). The brown leather binding is original to the manuscript. This is an illuminated and illustrated copy of the Ḫamse (quintet) of the Ottoman Turkish poet and scholar ʿAṭāʾullāh bin Yaḥyá ʿAṭāʾī (d. 1044 AH / 1634 CE). Although different in content, this work takes its inspiration from the famous Persian Khamsah of Niẓāmī Ganjavī (d. 605 AH / 1209 CE) and the Khamsah of Amīr Khusraw Dihlavī (d. 725 AH / 1325 CE). This Ottoman copy of ʿAṭāʾī's work ends with a portion of his Dīvān (fols. 142b-151b) instead of the fifth poem (mesnevi), Ḥilyet ül-efkār. The text, written in nastaʿlīq script, was copied by Ḫeyrullah Ḫeyrī Çāvuşzade in 1133 AH / 1721 CE. There are thirty-eight illustrations, and illuminated incipits introduce the different poems (fols. 1b, 22b, 63b, 107b, and 142b). The brown leather binding is original to the manuscript.

Illuminated Manuscript, Map of the fortress of Alanya (ʿAlāʾiye, Alaiye) (Turkey) from Book on Navigation

Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195. Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195

Illuminated Manuscript of Yusuf and Zulayka, Binding, Walters Art Museum Ms. W.644, Upper board outside

A leaf from an anonymous copy of the famous story of Joseph and the Potypha's wife (Yūsuf va Zulaykhā) by Nūr al-Dīn Jāmī (d.898 AH / 1492 CE) executed in the 10th AH / 16th CE century and containing three illustrations. Here Zulayka travels to the betrothed chosen for her by her father. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=30608. A leaf from an anonymous copy of the famous story of Joseph and the Potypha's wife (Yūsuf va Zulaykhā) by Nūr al-Dīn Jāmī (d.898 AH / 1492 CE) executed in the 10th AH / 16th CE century and containing three illustrations. Here Zulayka travels to the betrothed chosen for her by her father. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=30608

Illuminated Manuscript of Yusuf and Zulayka, Walters Art Museum Ms. W.644, fol. 116a

A leaf from an anonymous copy of the famous story of Joseph and the Potypha's wife (Yūsuf va Zulaykhā) by Nūr al-Dīn Jāmī (d.898 AH / 1492 CE) executed in the 10th AH / 16th CE century and containing three illustrations. Here Egyptian women are stunned by Zulayka's beauty. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=30608. A leaf from an anonymous copy of the famous story of Joseph and the Potypha's wife (Yūsuf va Zulaykhā) by Nūr al-Dīn Jāmī (d.898 AH / 1492 CE) executed in the 10th AH / 16th CE century and containing three illustrations. Here Egyptian women are stunned by Zulayka's beauty. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=30608

Illuminated Manuscript of Yusuf and Zulayka, Walters Art Museum Ms. W.644, fol. 50b

A leaf from an anonymous copy of the famous story of Joseph and the Potypha's wife (Yūsuf va Zulaykhā) by Nūr al-Dīn Jāmī (d.898 AH / 1492 CE) executed in the 10th AH / 16th CE century and containing three illustrations. Here Zulayka travels to the betrothed chosen for her by her father. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=30608. A leaf from an anonymous copy of the famous story of Joseph and the Potypha's wife (Yūsuf va Zulaykhā) by Nūr al-Dīn Jāmī (d.898 AH / 1492 CE) executed in the 10th AH / 16th CE century and containing three illustrations. Here Zulayka travels to the betrothed chosen for her by her father. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=30608

Illuminated Manuscript Koran, Binding, Walters Art Museum Ms. W.552, Lower board outside

This horizontal-format manuscript on parchment is an illuminated fragment of the Qur'an, covering chapter 6 (Sūrat al-anʿām), the end of verse 54, through chapter 9 (Sūrat al-tawbah), verse 79. The fragment probably dates to the third century AH / ninth CE. The text is written in an Early Abbasid (Kufic) script in dark brown ink and vocalized with red dots. Chapter headings are in gold ink, and verse markers in the shape of a stylized letter hā' and rosettes with colored dots indicate groups of five and ten verses. The green goatskin binding with gold-painted central floral design and cornerpieces is thirteenth century AH / nineteenth CE or later. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Museum Website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1528. This horizontal-format manuscript on parchment is an illuminated fragment of the Qur'an, covering chapter 6 (Sūrat al-anʿām), the end of verse 54, through chapter 9 (Sūrat al-tawbah), verse 79. The fragment probably dates to the third century AH / ninth CE. The text is written in an Early Abbasid (Kufic) script in dark brown ink and vocalized with red dots. Chapter headings are in gold ink, and verse markers in the shape of a stylized letter hā' and rosettes with colored dots indicate groups of five and ten verses. The green goatskin binding with gold-painted central floral design and cornerpieces is thirteenth century AH / nineteenth CE or later. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Museum Website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1528

The Portico Library Reading Area

Here is an hdr photograph taken from inside The Portico Library. This is a famous private library located in the middle of the city centre. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK. (taken with kind permission of the administration). Here is an hdr photograph taken from inside The Portico Library. This is a famous private library located in the middle of the city centre. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK. (taken with kind permission of the administration)

Illuminated Manuscript of a work on the duties of Muslims towards the Prophet with an account of his life, Original binding, Walte

The Incipit page with a w-shaped headpiece and gilt frame of an illuminated copy of the popular work on the duties of Muslims towards the Prophet Muhammad, known as al-Shifāʾ, by ʿIyāḍ al-Yaḥṣūbī (d. 544 AH / 1149 CE). This codex with gilt edges and a typical Turkish binding was executed by Salīm al-Rashīd in 1191 AH / 1777 CE. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=11962. The Incipit page with a w-shaped headpiece and gilt frame of an illuminated copy of the popular work on the duties of Muslims towards the Prophet Muhammad, known as al-Shifāʾ, by ʿIyāḍ al-Yaḥṣūbī (d. 544 AH / 1149 CE). This codex with gilt edges and a typical Turkish binding was executed by Salīm al-Rashīd in 1191 AH / 1777 CE. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=11962

Illuminated Manuscript Turkish version of Sindbadnama, Walters Art Museum Ms. W.662, fol. 33a

Tuḥfet ül-aḫyār. Folio from an Ottoman Turkish version of the well-known story of Sindbad (Sindbādnāmah) made from the Persian by ʿAbdülkerīm bin Muḥammed during the reign of Sultan Sulayman (Soliman) (reg.926 AH / 1520 CE - 974 AH / 1566 CE) and entitled Tuḥfet ül-aḫyār. This anonymous copy contains six illustrations made in the 10th century AH /16th CE. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=35391. Tuḥfet ül-aḫyār. Folio from an Ottoman Turkish version of the well-known story of Sindbad (Sindbādnāmah) made from the Persian by ʿAbdülkerīm bin Muḥammed during the reign of Sultan Sulayman (Soliman) (reg.926 AH / 1520 CE - 974 AH / 1566 CE) and entitled Tuḥfet ül-aḫyār. This anonymous copy contains six illustrations made in the 10th century AH /16th CE. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=35391

Illuminated Manuscript, Map of part of the coastline of the Sea of Marmara, with the town of Kavak (Qavāq) from Book on

Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195. Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195

Illuminated Manuscript of Yusuf and Zulayka, Binding, Walters Art Museum Ms. W.644, Lower board outside

A leaf from an anonymous copy of the famous story of Joseph and the Potypha's wife (Yūsuf va Zulaykhā) by Nūr al-Dīn Jāmī (d.898 AH / 1492 CE) executed in the 10th AH / 16th CE century and containing three illustrations. Here Zulayka travels to the betrothed chosen for her by her father. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=30608. A leaf from an anonymous copy of the famous story of Joseph and the Potypha's wife (Yūsuf va Zulaykhā) by Nūr al-Dīn Jāmī (d.898 AH / 1492 CE) executed in the 10th AH / 16th CE century and containing three illustrations. Here Zulayka travels to the betrothed chosen for her by her father. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=30608

Babur, during his second Hindustan campaign, riding a raft from Kunar back to Atar, from Illuminated manuscript Baburnama (Me

Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759. Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759

The John Rylands Library Study Area

Here is an hdr photograph taken from a study area inside The John Rylands Library. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK. Here is an hdr photograph taken from a study area inside The John Rylands Library. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK.

Birds of Hindustan: starlings, called pandāvalī (Memoirs of Babur), Walters Art Museum Ms. W.596, fol.31a

Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759. Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759

Old books in the Library

Old books in the Library

Chethams Library

Here is an hdr photograph taken from Chethams Library. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK. The library is one of the oldest public libraries in Britain. Both Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels spent time studying and reading in this library. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK. (permission was allowed for photograph)

Group of old ancient books with isolated background

Group of old ancient books with isolated background

Homage being paid to Babur, in 910 AH1504 CE, by Bāqī Chaghānyānī near the river Oxus (Daryā Āmū), from Illumina

Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759. Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759

Gladstone's Library

Here is an hdr photograph taken from Gladstone's Library. Located in Hawarden, Wales, UK. (taken with kind permission of the administration)

The Anatolian Coast facing Samos, from Book on Navigation, Walters Art Museum Ms. W.658, fol.75b

Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan SÃ¼leyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195. Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan SÃ¼leyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195

Old books being read by candle light

Old books being read by candle light

Illuminated Manuscript, Map of the western Italian coast from Pisa to the French border, including the towns of Genoa (Jinūz

Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195. Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195

Babur confronts his enemies in the mountains of Kharābūk and Pashāmūn, from Illuminated manuscript Baburnama (Memoirs of

Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759. Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759

Open book with a background of old books

Open book with a background of old books

Gladstone's Library Statue

Here is a statue of Gladstone inside Gladstone's Library. Located in Hawarden, Wales, UK. (taken with kind permission of the administration). Here is a statue of Gladstone inside Gladstone's Library. Located in Hawarden, Wales, UK. (taken with kind permission of the administration)

The island of Psara west of Chios, from Book on Navigation, Walters Art Museum Ms. W.658, fol.74a

Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan SÃ¼leyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195. Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan SÃ¼leyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195

Collection of poems (divan), Ḥāfiẓ at the court of Sultan Ghiyās̱ al-Dīn, Walters Manuscript W.636, fol. 101b

An illustrated copy of the collection of poems (Dīvān) by Shams al-Dīn Muḥammad Ḥāfiz al-Shīrāzī who flourished in the 7th AH / 14th CE century. The present codex was copied by Mullā Muḥammad Qāsim Hamadānī in 1210 AH /1796 CE in India and contains 48 miniatures. An illustrated copy of the collection of poems (Dīvān) by Shams al-Dīn Muḥammad Ḥāfiz al-Shīrāzī who flourished in the 7th AH / 14th CE century. The present codex was copied by Mullā Muḥammad Qāsim Hamadānī in 1210 AH /1796 CE in India and contains 48 miniatures.

An awards ceremony in the Sultan Ibrāhīm’s court before being sent on an expedition to Sambhal, from Illuminated manuscript Ba

Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759. Written originally in Chaghatay Turkish and later translated into Persian, Bāburnāmah is the story of a Timurid ruler of Fergana (Central Asia), Ẓahīr al-Dīn Muḥammad Bābur (866 AH /1483 CE - 937 AH / 1530 CE), who conquered northern India and established the Mughal Empire. The present codex, being a fragment of a dispersed copy, was executed most probably in the late 10th AH /16th CE century. It contains 30 mostly full-page miniatures in fine Mughal style by at least two different artists. Another major fragment of this work (57 folios) is in the State Museum of Eastern Cultures, Moscow. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=1759

Illuminated Manuscript, Map of the river Nile with various oases on each side from Book on Navigation, Walters Art Museum Ms. W.65

Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195. Originally composed in 932 AH / 1525 CE and dedicated to Sultan Süleyman I ("The Magnificent"), this great work by Piri Reis (d. 962 AH / 1555 CE) on navigation was later revised and expanded. The present manuscript, made mostly in the late 11th AH / 17th CE century, is based on the later expanded version with some 240 exquisitely executed maps and portolan charts. They include a world map (fol.41a) with the outline of the Americas, as well as coastlines (bays, capes, peninsulas), islands, mountains and cities of the Mediterranean basin and the Black Sea. The work starts with the description of the coastline of Anatolia and the islands of the Aegean Sea, the Peloponnese peninsula and eastern and western coasts of the Adriatic Sea. It then proceeds to describe the western shores of Italy, southern France, Spain, North Africa, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, western Anatolia, various islands north of Crete, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and the Black Sea. It ends with a map of the shores of the the Caspian Sea (fol.374a). See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=19195

Feather pen, inkwell and old books on white

Feather pen, inkwell and old books on white

Five poems (quintet), The poet ʿAṭāʾī talking to a learned man in a tavern, Walters Manuscript W.666, fol. 44a

This is an illuminated and illustrated copy of the Ḫamse (quintet) of the Ottoman Turkish poet and scholar ʿAṭāʾullāh bin Yaḥyá ʿAṭāʾī (d. 1044 AH / 1634 CE). Although different in content, this work takes its inspiration from the famous Persian Khamsah of Niẓāmī Ganjavī (d. 605 AH / 1209 CE) and the Khamsah of Amīr Khusraw Dihlavī (d. 725 AH / 1325 CE). This Ottoman copy of ʿAṭāʾī's work ends with a portion of his Dīvān (fols. 142b-151b) instead of the fifth poem (mesnevi), Ḥilyet ül-efkār. The text, written in nastaʿlīq script, was copied by Ḫeyrullah Ḫeyrī Çāvuşzade in 1133 AH / 1721 CE. There are thirty-eight illustrations, and illuminated incipits introduce the different poems (fols. 1b, 22b, 63b, 107b, and 142b). The brown leather binding is original to the manuscript. This is an illuminated and illustrated copy of the Ḫamse (quintet) of the Ottoman Turkish poet and scholar ʿAṭāʾullāh bin Yaḥyá ʿAṭāʾī (d. 1044 AH / 1634 CE). Although different in content, this work takes its inspiration from the famous Persian Khamsah of Niẓāmī Ganjavī (d. 605 AH / 1209 CE) and the Khamsah of Amīr Khusraw Dihlavī (d. 725 AH / 1325 CE). This Ottoman copy of ʿAṭāʾī's work ends with a portion of his Dīvān (fols. 142b-151b) instead of the fifth poem (mesnevi), Ḥilyet ül-efkār. The text, written in nastaʿlīq script, was copied by Ḫeyrullah Ḫeyrī Çāvuşzade in 1133 AH / 1721 CE. There are thirty-eight illustrations, and illuminated incipits introduce the different poems (fols. 1b, 22b, 63b, 107b, and 142b). The brown leather binding is original to the manuscript.

Still life with pink roses and antique old clock, flowers on vintage books and wooden table, old candles

Still life with pink roses and antique old clock, flowers on vintage books and wooden table, old candles

Koran, Illuminated headpiece with arabesque design and marginal medallion at left, Walters Manuscript W.555, fol. 1a

This illuminated fragment of the Qur'an contains chapter 25 (Sūrat al-furqān), verses 21-32 and 39-78; chapter 26 (Sūrat al-shuʿarāʾ); and chapter 27 (Sūrat al-naml), up to verse 40. It probably dates to the late fifth century AH / eleventh CE or early sixth century AH / twelfth CE. The text is written in the New Abbasid (broken cursive) style in black ink and is vocalized with red dots and blue circles, the latter for sukūn. Single verses are separated by illuminated rosettes, and groups of five verses are indicated by the letter hāʾ in the form of a teardrop in the margins. Marginal medallions are also used for larger verse groups. The black leather binding is modern. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=11860. This illuminated fragment of the Qur'an contains chapter 25 (Sūrat al-furqān), verses 21-32 and 39-78; chapter 26 (Sūrat al-shuʿarāʾ); and chapter 27 (Sūrat al-naml), up to verse 40. It probably dates to the late fifth century AH / eleventh CE or early sixth century AH / twelfth CE. The text is written in the New Abbasid (broken cursive) style in black ink and is vocalized with red dots and blue circles, the latter for sukūn. Single verses are separated by illuminated rosettes, and groups of five verses are indicated by the letter hāʾ in the form of a teardrop in the margins. Marginal medallions are also used for larger verse groups. The black leather binding is modern. See this manuscript page by page at the Walters Art Museum website: art.thewalters.org/viewwoa.aspx?id=11860

The Portico Library

Here is an hdr photograph taken from inside The Portico Library. This is a famous private library located in the middle of the city centre. Located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, UK. (taken with kind permission of the administration)

Collection of poems (divan), Ḥāfiẓ taken by the beauty of a young woman, Walters Manuscript W.636, fol. 141a

An illustrated copy of the collection of poems (Dīvān) by Shams al-Dīn Muḥammad Ḥāfiz al-Shīrāzī who flourished in the 7th AH / 14th CE century. The present codex was copied by Mullā Muḥammad Qāsim Hamadānī in 1210 AH /1796 CE in India and contains 48 miniatures. An illustrated copy of the collection of poems (Dīvān) by Shams al-Dīn Muḥammad Ḥāfiz al-Shīrāzī who flourished in the 7th AH / 14th CE century. The present codex was copied by Mullā Muḥammad Qāsim Hamadānī in 1210 AH /1796 CE in India and contains 48 miniatures.

Old books coffee cup, compass, glasses and pencil on a wooden.

Old books coffee cup, compass, glasses and pencil on a wooden.

Stack of old vintage books on wooden table against background

Stack of old vintage books on wooden table against background

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