Unknown artist, Qurʾan in a leather satchel, West African, about 1830–1880 CE. Ink and color on paper; satchel, leather. Denman Waldo Ross Collection.
Unknown artist, Qurʾan in a leather satchel, West African, about 1830–1880 CE. Ink and color on paper; satchel, leather. Denman Waldo Ross Collection.
Islamic Manuscripts and Book Arts
10:30 am–12:00 pm
The MFA has been collecting book arts from Muslim societies since the late 19th century. Today these works are some of the hallmarks of the MFA’s Islamic art collection. Together, these 500-plus works tell the story of Islamic manuscripts and how book arts developed on a global scale. By looking closely at the calligraphy display and other objects on view in the Arts of Islamic Cultures Gallery, piece together more than 1,400 years of Islamic manuscripts and discover how they are still relevant today.
Nadirah Mansour, assistant curator of Islamic Art, Art of Asia
Wheelchair accessible
Ticket Information
Tickets must be purchased prior to the start of the first session; individual sessions are not available.
To order tickets by phone, call 1-800-440-6975 ($6 processing fee applies); to order in person, visit any MFA ticket desk.
Bag Checks
All bags are subject to inspection by Museum staff. Backpacks, large bags, all liquids including hand sanitizer and sunscreen, and outside food or drink are not permitted. Exceptions are made for medical or religious needs. All bags are strongly discouraged, and any bags larger than 11” x 15” must be checked in the Coat Room upon entry. Read our full bag check policy.