Rare 19th-Century Quranic Manuscript Showcased at Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah

Jeddah, March 10, 2025 – Visitors to the second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah are witnessing an extraordinary piece of Islamic heritage—a rare Quranic manuscript that seamlessly blends the elegance of Arabic calligraphy with intricate Islamic artistry. This unique Quran, meticulously crafted nearly two centuries ago, stands as a testament to the rich legacy of Islamic calligraphy and manuscript preservation.

Held at the Western Hajj Terminal at King Abdulaziz International Airport, the biennale, organized by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, offers attendees a chance to explore rare Islamic treasures, with this particular manuscript being one of the most exceptional exhibits. Originally donated as a waqf for the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, the Quran was transcribed in India by renowned calligrapher Ghulam Mohiuddin on Muharram 6, 1240 AH (August 31, 1824 AD).

This Quran is distinguished by its large format, measuring 139.7 × 77.5 cm, with pages lavishly adorned in gold and deep-colored pigments. Its original cover was inlaid with precious gemstones, including rubies, emeralds, turquoise, and peridot, further emphasizing its artistic and historical value.

The text was penned in Naskh script using black ink, with a Persian translation in red Nastaliq script interwoven between the lines—reflecting the calligraphic traditions of the Indian subcontinent during the 19th century. Historical records indicate that this Quran arrived in Madinah in the mid-13th century AH, where it was placed near the Bab As-Salam (As-Salam Gate) before being transferred to the Prophet’s Mosque treasury in 1273 AH (1857 AD). In 1302 AH (1884 AD), it was rebound by Hajj Yusuf bin Hajj Masoom Nemankani, an Uzbek scholar specializing in manuscript restoration, after he settled in Madinah.

Preserving Islamic Art and Calligraphy

Now housed in the King Abdulaziz Complex for Endowment Libraries in Madinah, this rare manuscript remains a focal point of academic and artistic interest, attracting researchers, historians, and visitors eager to explore its craftsmanship.

The Islamic Arts Biennale provides a fitting platform to showcase such treasures, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to preserving Islamic heritage and showcasing the artistic excellence of past centuries. This historic Quran is a reflection of the spiritual devotion and artistic grandeur that has characterized Islamic civilization for generations.