This exquisite manuscript of the Quran features the Surahs Yasin, Al-Fath, Al-Waqi’a, Al-Mulk, An-Naba, and Al-Jumu’ah, all meticulously crafted by Ali Reza Abbasi, the esteemed calligrapher and royal librarian of the Safavid dynasty, in 1020 AH (1611 CE). It is currently housed in the Berlin State Library, cataloged as 2493 Hs. or. Exemplifying the intricate art of Safavid book decoration, this manuscript is rendered in the elegant Nasta’liq script, showcasing Abbasi’s mastery through a unique blend of script styles and vibrant colors, including lapis blue and cinnabar.

Opening with Surah Yasin, the initial pages are beautifully illuminated, featuring the inscription “Bismillah al-Rahman al-Rahim.” Notably, the name “Yasin” is absent at the beginning, a departure from the standard practice for other surahs. The verses are inscribed in black ink, accented by red diacritical marks, while distinctive color palettes are employed for each surah’s title and details: Surahs Al-Fath, Al-Mulk, and Al-Jumu’ah use a striking combination of lapis blue and red diacritics, whereas Surahs Al-Waqi’a and An-Naba are adorned with cinnabar and blue diacritics. The manuscript also displays the royal seal of Shah Abbas I, inscribed with the phrase “Servant of the King of Guardianship, Abbas,” dated 1012 AH, on the opening and closing pages. Additionally, symmetrical vegetal motifs gracefully frame the text, enhancing the manuscript’s artistic integrity and authenticity.