Tunisia: Surat Al-Rum ('Sura of the Romans') in Kufic script. From the 'Blue Qur'an', Qairawan, Tunisia, c. 1000CE

The Blue Qur'an (Arabic: لمصحف الأزرق) is a late 9th - early 10th century Tunisian Qur'an manuscript in Kufic calligraphy. It is written in gold (chrysography) on parchment died with indigo, a unique aspect. It is among the most famous works of Islamic art, and has been called 'one of the most extraordinary luxury manuscripts ever created'.

The manuscript was dispersed during the Ottoman period; today most of it is located in the National Institute of Art and Archaeology in Tunis, with detached folios in museums worldwide.

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Supplier: CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

Marie-Lan Nguyen

Credit:

Pictures From History