This impressive Qur’an stand, or rahla, one the most accomplished works in wood to survive from Iran, bears the signature of its carver, who was probably from Isfahan in central Iran. The splendid carved decoration, which includes the motif of a flowered bush within a niche surrounded by calligraphic blessings upon the Prophet and the Twelve Imams, reveals a Shi^ci association. Other inscriptions include the date as well as the name of the patron who ordered this stand for a madrasa (theological school), but they do not give the name of the school or the city where it was located.

Open full-size and alternate view(s)