An Investigation of TSMK H. S. 25 Inventory Koran in Terms of the Art of Illumination

Abstract

The love and respect for the Koran has resulted in meticulous work for both its inscription and decoration, and conduced to the creation of very valuable works. This study also includes the examination of the illumination of the Koran, which is registered in the inventory no. H. S. 25 of the Topkapı Palace Museum Library, is a reference work in terms of both its calligraphy and illumination. In the introduction part of the study, information is given about the decorated parts of a Koran, and immediately after that, the Koran in question is described in terms of its general features. In addition, outliars of the normal design situations are highlighted. Each part of the Koran’s binding is described in terms of design and production techniques, and information about its calligrapher and illuminator is also given. After the general illumination characteristics of the Koran are conveyed in the context of the Safavid period illumination, its zahriye and serlevha illumination are examined through the visuals in a course from the whole to the piece. Sûrebaşı illuminations are classified under four headings according to their design varieties. Afterwards, the varieties of Koran roses, the ferağ record illumination and the pages with halkâr have been discussed in terms of design, color and production technique.