Back to Gallery Guide Early Korans are often horizontal in format and their shape responds to the natural flow of the kufic script that calls for long horizontal strokes. Other characteristics are the generous spaces between words and letters that lend the script a measured rhythm. In this folio, the red dots above and below the letters indicate diacritics, while the medallion in the margin signifies a text division. Such markers also enhance the visual beauty of the overall folio. The verse is from the end of the second sura (chapter) of the Koran, known as al-Buqara (The Cow).

Folio from a Koran North Africa or Near East, 9th–10th century Ink, color, and gold on parchment 24.5 x 33.0 cm. Purchase F1937.6

The Arthur M. Sackler Gallery and the Freer Gallery of Art Exhibition List | Online Exhibitions All presented material is copyright © Smithsonian Institution, 2008 except where otherwise noted.