Overflap and Inside Cover of a Khamsa (Quintet) of Nizami of Ganja

Art Historical Context

This exquisite overflap and inside cover belong to a Khamsa, or quintet of epic poems, by the renowned 12th-century Persian poetizami Ganjavi. Created in 1524–25 CE during the Saf dynasty in Persia (modern-day Iran), this artifact exemplifies the golden age of Islamic manuscript production. The Khamsa—comprising five romantic and moral tales like *Layla and Majnun*—was a cultural cornerstone, inspiring lavish illuminations that blended poetry with visual splendor for elite patrons. Crafted by a team of master artists including Sultan Muhammad Nur, Mahmud Muzahhib, and Shaikh Zada, the binding features embossed leather adorned with gold and vibrant colors, showcasing intricate tooled designs typical of Safavid book arts. The manuscript pages employ ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper, creating luminous effects that highlight calligraphy and miniature paintings. Measuring 12⅝ × 8¾ inches, this codex reflects the era's technical virtuosity, where bookbinding was an art form rivaling the text itself. A gift to the Metropolitan Museum of Art from Alexander Smith Cochran in 1913, this piece invites visitors to appreciate the fusion of literature, devotion, and craftsmanship in Islamic culture, where books were treasured as sacred objects.