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19th century manuscript of Quran fetches Dh25,200

SHARJAH — A 19th century manuscript of the Holy Quran, belonging to the Ottoman period, fetched Dh25,200 at a charity auction organised by Sahara Centre to raise fund for Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) which provide rehabilitation services for more than 2,000 children with special needs.

Consisting of 273 pages with15 lines per page, the Quran has been calligraphed in NASKH (text in blank ink, with heading in red). It also has two illuminated bio folios in gold and colours and with contemporary burgundy leather binding with tooled central medallions. Its dimension is 32 by 22 cm. The manuscript also carries the certificate of authenticity.

The original price of the manuscript was Dh21,600, but the auction started with price of 10,800.

A large number of people took part in the bidding at the auction which was also broadcast live by Ajman Radio Channel 4.

Noora Hassan, 28, of Sharjah won the bidding and bought the manuscript for Dh25,200.

Speaking to Khaleej Times, she said that the price money would go to charity to support the SCHS to provide better services for people with special needs who need the support of the government and community.

The manuscript also is unique in its type and considered one of the important historical pieces that make proud to posses.

The auction was part of a series of auctions organised by Sahara Centre to support the SCHS.

There were many other items also auctioned and large number of people of various nationalities gathered to take part in the charity initiative.

Jean Pierre Nammour, Managing Director of Sahara Centre, said that the charity auction was a unique idea to help those who are less fortunate. The auctions were held during the holy month of Ramadan and Eid holidays.

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