Qur'an cover c. 17th century

This Qur'an cover, of unknown date and origin, presents a fascinating glimpse into the world of Islamic book production. The elaborate geometric and floral designs, rendered in gold leaf, point to a culture where calligraphy and ornamentation were highly valued. The creation of such an object would have involved a team of skilled artisans, working under the patronage of a wealthy individual or institution. The cover serves not only to protect the sacred text, but also to enhance its prestige and communicate the owner's piety and status. It also hints at institutional history and the power of religious institutions. As historians, we can delve deeper into the meaning of this object by studying the history of Islamic bookbinding, the symbolism of its decorative motifs, and the social context in which it was created. By examining surviving manuscripts, archival documents, and other material evidence, we can reconstruct the world of its makers and users. The meaning of art is always contingent on social context.