Lot 172 AL-JAZULI, DALA'IL AL-KHAYRAT WA SHAWARIQ AL-ANWAR, NORTH AFRICA, 18TH CENTURY
Arabic manuscript on cream-coloured paper, 7 lines to the page written in clear large maghribi script, significant words picked out in red and green, margins ruled in red ink, headings in black angular kufic script within a decorated panel, diactries in red ink. First and last page with polychrome decoration.
In deep red leather with stamped a central medallion and cornerpieces of gilt leather onlay with flap.
18.5 by 19 cm.
CATALOGUE NOTE
Dala’il al-Khayrat reflect the spontaneous composition of salawat, the blessings and praise upon the Prophet, composed directly from the heart of a prominent Sufi master, Imam Al-Jazuli (died 1465). The composition has become an important prayer book in its native land, Morocco, which has also spread across the breadth of the Islamic lands. Today, Dala’il al-Khayrat is celebrated as the most acclaimed source on the salawat upon the Prophet Mohammad. Dala’il al-Khayrat has for centuries inspired calligraphers, illuminators and painters of court ateliers in producing sumptuous prayer manuscripts, which reflect the distinctive designs of various Islamic dynasties. These manuscripts uncover the story behind the text appreciation by patrons and calligraphers, and to bring to light the skills as well as the techniques of the craftsmen. The tradition of reciting the salawat of Dala’il al-Khayrat in public and private gatherings continues until today.