Description & Technical information

Of folding form, this elegant Quran stand is made of two rectangular panels connected by hinges in the centre. On the top half of the exterior panels there is a rectangular medallion with geometric lattice decorations in ivory surrounded by a stained, green-coloured, ivory border. In addition, there is a continuous arrangement of ivory and tortoiseshell borders, of which the widest is decorated with small rectangular ivory and ebony pieces placed in a zig-zag format. This zig-zag border continues on the lower half of the panels which has also been carved and adorned with a large palmette with spandrels made of tortoiseshell to form the four legs of the stand. Throughout the edges of the object there is ivory and tortoiseshell inlaid in a checkerboard-style. The interior of the stand is also decorated with a stained-ivory border on each side, which is surrounded by three rows of eight-sided stars carved into the wood. 
Indeed, Quran stands such as this were beautifully manufactured items intended for use in mosques, mausoleums, or homes. Quran stands have traditionally been essential in a religious setting because they provide the necessary respect required by keeping the Quran high above the ground.

This item contains less than 10% ivory and has been registered with Defra.

Period:  17th – 18th century
Origin:  India
Medium: Wood
Dimensions: 42.2 x 22.2 cm (16⁵/₈ x 8³/₄ inches)
Categories: Oriental and Asian Art