A Rare Masterpiece: The Mughal Miniature Quran of Agra (1574-1575 AD)

This stunning miniature Quran, copied by the scribe Ali ibn Abd al-Karim al-Samri al-Basri in 1574-1575 AD (982 AH), is a rare gem from the Mughal Empire, created during the reign of Emperor Akbar. Measuring just 7.5 x 6.2 cm, the manuscript, written in exquisite ghubar (miniature) script, is a marvel of both calligraphy and craftsmanship, encapsulating the cultural and spiritual vibrancy of Akbar’s capital, Agra.

The manuscript, now part of a private collection, is bound in an unusual vessel format, traditionally used for Persian poetry but rarely used for Quranic texts. The folio is shaped like small leaves, with the text area following this unique shape. This structural detail, combined with the miniature size, suggests that the Quran may not have been intended for regular reading, but rather served as a talisman carried by its owner for protection and spiritual guidance.

The Quran is decorated with gold floral motifs reflecting the style of Mughal and early Safavid art, highlighting the rich artistic exchange between the Persian and Indian worlds in the 16th century. The surah titles are illustrated in white thirds, set on narrow panels with intricate border designs. These lavish decorations, combined with the precise miniature lettering, demonstrate the high level of craftsmanship and the deep respect the Mughal court had for Quranic art.

The production of this Quran took place during a crucial period in Akbar’s reign, when he was building his great palace-city, Fatehpur Sikri, just west of Agra. This was a period marked by intense intellectual and religious activity at court. Akbar’s deep engagement with religious discourse, as noted by contemporary historian Abu’l Fazl, made the creation of such manuscripts not only an artistic achievement but also a reflection of the emperor’s spiritual concerns. Akbar’s fascination with the Quran and the Hadith (traditions of the Prophet) was part of his broader efforts to promote religious dialogue and tolerance, which defined much of his reign.

What makes this Quran particularly important is its rarity. Only one other copy of the Quran, copied in Lahore in 1573-1574 AD for Akbar himself, is known to have originated with certainty during his reign. This miniature manuscript from Agra is therefore considered one of the very few surviving Quranic texts from Akbar’s time with an authenticated colophon.

The Mughal miniature Quran, with its unique form, intricate details and historical significance, remains a testament to the artistic and spiritual fervour of the Mughal Empire, reflecting Akbar’s vision of combining culture, faith and intellectualism into a remarkable legacy.