226 Two Malay carved inscribed gilded and painted wood doors, Malay peninsula or Java, 19th century, each deeply carved with 14 and 15ll. of naskh with floral spandrels above and below, blue borders, 192 x 53.3cm and 190.5 x 53.4cm. (2)
Qur’an boxes, wall screens and large chests decorated with religious inscriptions in Malaysia are well documented (The Message and the Monsoon, Islamic Art of Southeast Asia from the Collection of the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, pp. 177-81). These finely carved doors are unique in the balanced execution of the foliage and calligraphy. The bold inscription is two suras from the Qur’an. Inscribed doors such as these appear at the entrance of the private residences of wealthy Muslims as a public declaration of religious faith. £6000-8000 + 27.6% BP*
227-239 No lots
70
BP* - Buyers Premium includes VAT at 20%. ARR - indicates an additional charge may apply, see information on page 2.
