Mushaf Sharif Noor

Description

Mushaf Sharif Noor: A Peerless Recreation of a 10th Century Hijri Calligraphy Masterpiece – Buy Exquisite Facsimile Quran Online

The Mushaf Sharif Noor stands as a luxurious and singular work, embodying the zenith of Iranian-Islamic calligraphy and illumination. This exquisite facsimile Quran is a meticulous and artistic reproduction of a historic manuscript, distinguished not only by its spiritual significance but also by its exceptional aesthetic and artistic merit. Studying and possessing this rare Quran replica offers a chance for a deeper connection with the divine word while admiring the rich cultural heritage that emanates from every page.

History and Features of the Original Mushaf Sharif Noor Manuscript

The value and prestige of the Mushaf Sharif Noor are rooted in the authenticity of its original manuscript, crafted by skilled Iranian artists in past centuries. This manuscript is not merely a sacred text but a complete artistic masterpiece.

The Master Calligrapher: Nuruddin Muhammad and the Era of Scription

The original Mushaf Sharif Noor was penned by the master calligrapher Nuruddin Muhammad. Evidence within the manuscript itself, including the writing style, paper type, and illumination, dates its creation to the 10th century Hijri (Safavid era). This period was one of the most brilliant epochs for Islamic art in Iran, particularly in book art and calligraphy. Regarding the calligrapher’s identity, some sources identify him as “Nuruddin Muhammad Isfahani,” active between 900 and 950 Hijri , while others, based on style and age, suggest he might be “Nuruddin Muhammad Shirazi,” a renowned Safavid-era calligrapher.

Regardless of this minor discrepancy, the calligrapher’s skill in creating a work that remains admirable after centuries is undeniable. This historical period fostered the flourishing of arts like calligraphy, illumination, and bookbinding, with the Mushaf Sharif Noor being a prime example of this artistic excellence.

The Splendor of Calligraphy: Muhaqqaq Script in the Mushaf Noor

One of the most striking artistic features of the original Mushaf Sharif Noor is its inscription in the “Muhaqqaq script.” Muhaqqaq is one of the six primary, most authentic, and majestic Islamic scripts. Its strength, clarity, and beautiful structure have always made it a favorite among great Quranic calligraphers. In this Mushaf, Nuruddin Muhammad masterfully revived the Muhaqqaq script, inscribing the divine verses with this noble hand.

This deliberate choice not only enhances the artwork’s artistic value but also demonstrates the calligrapher’s command over traditional calligraphy and his ability to revive the classic beauty of this art form. Every letter and word in this Mushaf is penned with exemplary precision, adhering strictly to the principles of Muhaqqaq script, captivating any beholder. 

A Masterpiece of Illumination and Decoration: Reflecting Iranian Art Schools

The visual allure of the Mushaf Sharif Noor extends beyond its calligraphy; its illuminations and decorations are masterpieces of Iranian book art. The embellishments reflect the spirit and overall structure of the artistic schools of Greater Khorasan and Herat, with particular attention to the achievements of the Herat school, a significant center of Timurid art. This influence from the peak of Timurid book art, even though the work was created during the Safavid period, indicates the continuity of a rich artistic tradition and inspiration drawn from the finest preceding examples.  

The Mushaf’s color composition is based on the sublime use of lapis lazuli and various shades of gold (raw and burnished), lending a magnificent and spiritual aura to its pages. It is said that the designer of this Mushaf’s illumination gathered a festival of pre-Safavid era illumination motifs and executed them with unparalleled skill. The pages are adorned with exceptionally fine illumination, belonging to the second half of the 10th century Hijri, each a complete work of art in itself.    

Historical and Cultural Significance: An Enduring Legacy

The Mushaf Sharif Noor is more than an ordinary Quran; it is a vital historical and cultural document. This work is considered the “fruit of nine centuries of Iranian calligraphy and illumination art” and represents the pinnacle of skill, creativity, and dedication of Iranian artists over centuries to the inscription and adornment of the divine word. Each page of this Mushaf narrates a story of love, faith, and art, holding a special place in the history of Islamic art and Quranic calligraphy in Iran as an enduring legacy.   

The Facsimile Edition of Mushaf Sharif Noor: Reviving a Treasure by Azzam Honar Institute

Given the unparalleled value and fragility of ancient manuscripts, producing facsimile editions is an effective way to preserve and make these treasures accessible to enthusiasts and researchers. This high-quality Quran replica allows wider access to a significant piece of Islamic heritage.

The Concept of “Facsimile Mushaf”: A Bridge Between Past and Present

“Facsimile” means an exact and faithful copy or replica of an original document or manuscript. The goal of producing a facsimile is to recreate a copy with the closest possible resemblance to the original in terms of dimensions, color, paper quality, binding type, and even the marks of time. This complex and costly process allows researchers, libraries, museums, and enthusiasts to access rare and valuable manuscripts without needing to handle or repeatedly access the fragile original.

Facsimile printing also helps scholars observe details like corrections, marginalia, and alterations in the original that might not be included in standard printed editions. Thus, a facsimile acts as a bridge between the past and present, keeping the written heritage alive for future generations.

Publisher and Production Process: Precision and Artistry in Recreation

The recreation of the Mushaf Sharif Noor as a facsimile was accomplished through the efforts of the “Azzam Honar Institute,” guided by figures such as Seyyed Mohammad Sadeq Kharazi. Planning for the printing of this exquisite work began in 2000 AD (around 1379 SH) in Germany and, after eight years of persistent effort, was completed in 1387 SH (2008 AD).

The production process of this facsimile Quran was carried out with exemplary precision, utilizing advanced technologies and the expertise of artists and specialists:

• Slide Preparation and Scanning: Due to the extreme delicacy and finesse of the original manuscript, which did not permit direct scanning, slides were first made of all pages. These slides were then scanned at the highest possible quality in one of the most reputable lithography centers in Koblenz, Germany, to create digital files.
• Printing Press Selection: The project’s artistic management, considering the necessity of preserving the sanctity and high status of the Holy Quran, selected five reputable printing presses in Germany and obtained print samples from all to ensure the best quality.
• Paper Reconstruction: To achieve maximum similarity to the original, a special 115-gram cream-colored paper with neutral acidity (for long-term durability) was commissioned from reputable paper manufacturers.
• Custom Color Production: The renowned German ink company Epple was tasked with analyzing the gold color used in the original manuscript and precisely replicating it for this facsimile printing.
• Text Correction and Control: To ensure the complete accuracy and integrity of the Quranic text, the digital version was reviewed, compared, and corrected multiple times by Quranic scholars and expert specialists before printing.

This meticulous process and significant investment demonstrate the publisher’s commitment to delivering a flawless work worthy of the original Mushaf Sharif Noor.

Physical Specifications of the Facsimile Edition: Touching History with Unparalleled Quality

The facsimile edition of the Mushaf Sharif Noor has been produced with great care and precision to match the physical characteristics of the original:

• Binding: The Mushaf’s binding is made from natural Timaaj leather in brown, crafted as a single piece with a turned-in edge. This binding is an exact replica of the original’s old cover, featuring artistic embossing on the front and back, along with exquisite gold tooling and an armband-style cartouche in the recessed border with raised arabesque and floral motifs. A patina effect, appropriate for leather and gold leaf, was used to create a sense of antiquity and authenticity. This binding is considered one of the best and closest contemporary Iranian leather bindings and has been described as the “most expensive printed Quran binding in the country.”
• Paper: As previously mentioned, 115-gram cream-colored paper with neutral acidity, similar to the original manuscript’s paper, was used, ensuring the work’s durability and longevity.  
• Dimensions: This Mushaf is published in a large royal (Soltani) format, measuring $28\times 44$ cm, effectively conveying the grandeur and majesty of the original.
• Weight: The weight of this exquisite work, including its box and accompanying booklet, is approximately 10,560 grams (10.56 kg), indicating its physical volume and importance.
• Accompanying Booklet: A guide booklet in both Persian and English is provided with this Mushaf, containing further information about the history, artistic features, and production process of this fine Quran.
• Number of Pages: The number of pages in this facsimile edition matches the original manuscript.

These precise specifications allow the buyer to clearly understand the outstanding quality and the material and artistic value of this peerless recreation.

Why Owning the Mushaf Sharif Noor (Facsimile) is a Unique Experience

Acquiring the facsimile edition of the Mushaf Sharif Noor is more than a typical purchase; it offers a multifaceted and valuable experience for enthusiasts:

A Treasure of Art and Spirituality in Your Home or Collection

This Mushaf holds dual value: it is both an outstanding work of art, symbolizing the peak of Iranian-Islamic calligraphy and illumination, and the sacred word of God, whose presence brings blessings and spirituality to any space. This work is an ideal choice for lovers of Islamic art, collectors, calligraphers, illumination artists, and individuals seeking a special, exquisite, and blessed Quran for recitation or preservation.

An Exquisite and Enduring Gift for Your Dearest Ones

Given its high artistic and spiritual value, and its unparalleled manufacturing quality, the Mushaf Sharif Noor can be an extraordinarily precious, cultural, and spiritual gift for very special occasions such as weddings, religious holidays, expressions of gratitude to distinguished personalities, or as a lasting family heirloom. Choosing such a gift reflects the giver’s refined taste and deep respect.

An Opportunity for Researchers and Lovers of Ancient Heritage

High-quality facsimile editions like the Mushaf Sharif Noor enable researchers in art history, Quranic studies, codicology, and book art to study a historical masterpiece with remarkable detail and a quality very close to the original. This is particularly important when access to the original manuscript is difficult or impossible due to conservation restrictions. This rare Quran replica serves as an invaluable resource.

Supporting the Preservation and Revival of Iranian and Islamic Cultural Heritage

Purchasing this exquisite work is, in a way, supporting the extensive and costly efforts made to identify, document, recreate, and introduce the cultural and artistic treasures of Iran and the Islamic world. This action helps sustain these valuable activities and transmit this heritage to future generations.

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Gift this unparalleled masterpiece of art and spirituality to your collection or your loved ones today. The Mushaf Sharif Noor is not just a book but a legacy of faith, art, and history whose value will only increase with time.

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