Qur'an Case

Unknown

late 19th–early 20th century · Silver · Islamic Art

Small portable cases to hold miniature Qur’ans are known from across the Islamic world. This example is hinged at the top and has a chain attached in order that it can be worn on the body—probably suspended around the neck. This case may have held a section of the Qur’an or possibly the manuscript in its entirety in miniature. It may also have held other pieces of paper with inscribed prayers or other holy words. This type of jewel was intended to provide baraka or blessing to the wearer.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 19th–early 20th century

Medium

Silver

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Spear Jr., 1982