Two longer inscriptions from the Kaaba have appeared on the auction market recently (Sotheby's 21 October 1993, lot 255 and Christie's 26 April 1994 lot 15). The use of gilt thread on the present example indicates that it is probably of later date than the other two. It still however retains the plain black silk ground which antedates the patterned black silk ground which has been replaced on present-day examples by black wool.