Lot 205 SHAMA’IL AL-NABI: ARABIC MANUSCRIPT ON THE PROPHETIC ATTRIBUTES, DAST BINIL, DATED 1284 AH / 1867–68 AD

Arabic manuscript on paper, each page arranged in 11 lines of elegant black Naskh script, with titles, important words and catchwords highlighted in red ink. Housed in brown leather binding embossed with floral motifs. 18 by 27 cm

A comprehensive work on the Shama’il, the physical characteristics, personal qualities and daily life of the Prophet Muhammad, presented through a collection of transmitted traditions and hadiths with their chains of transmission. The work records numerous accounts narrated by the Companions, including ʿAli ibn Abi Talib, describing the Prophet’s appearance, character and conduct. The chapters address a wide range of subjects, including the Prophet’s physical appearance and character, the Seal of Prophethood, his hair and grey hairs, use of kohl, clothing, sandals and ring, sword and armour, manner of walking, food and bread, ablution, prayers and supplications before and after eating, fruits and beverages, use of perfume, laughter, temperament, speech and manner of sleeping. Further sections discuss his voluntary prayers, recitation of the Qur’an, the names and epithets attributed to him, and finally his death. A valuable devotional and literary compilation preserving a detailed portrait of the Prophet, through transmitted traditions concerning his appearance, habits, virtues and conduct. The manuscript was copied in Dast Binil in 1284 AH / 1867–68 AD.