Lot Essay
The inscriptions include the Profession of Faith, various invocations, and verses from the Qur'an including Qur'an II, sura al-baqara, v.114: "We have seen thee turning thy face about in Heaven; now we will surely turn thee to a direction that shall satisfy thee. Turn thy face towards the Holy Mosque".
A panel of very similar design, but dating to the 18th century, was sold in these Rooms 7 October 2008, lot 387. One of a closer date to the present panel was also sold in these Rooms, 31 March 2009, lot 156. These later examples are woven in a different technique such that the inscription is almost in relief against the ground, enabling it to stand out more clearly.
A panel of very similar design, but dating to the 18th century, was sold in these Rooms 7 October 2008, lot 387. One of a closer date to the present panel was also sold in these Rooms, 31 March 2009, lot 156. These later examples are woven in a different technique such that the inscription is almost in relief against the ground, enabling it to stand out more clearly.