PARIS.- An early miniature Qur'an, probably North Africa, 15th-16th century achieved €60,855 at Bonhams’ first Islamic and Indian sale today (Thursday 6 April) in Paris. The work had a pre-sale estimate of €12,000 - €17,000 and was one of the highlights of the sale.

A small illuminated Qur'an decorated with gilt-stamped panels with Chinese-style cloud bands, with flap mid-16th Century made €5,355 against an estimate of €3,500 - 5,800. A Mamluk bone-inlaid wood panel, Egypt, 14th/15th Century sold for €9,563 against an estimate of €2,000 to 3,000.

The 144-lot sale made a total of €229,793 with 75% sold by lot and 99,5% sold by value.

Oliver White, Bonhams Head of Islamic and Indian Art commented: “We're absolutely delighted with the results of today's sale, and especially the fantastic result for the Qur'an which encapsulates the dexterity of Muslim scribes.”

Other highlights of the sale included:

A silver-inlaid brass candlestick of splayed form with raised band to rim and foot has been executed in Persia during the 14th Century sold for €7,013 (Estimate: €6,000 - 8,000).

Three silver and gold koftgari-steel swords, India 20th Century sold for €5,100 (Estimate: €1,400 - 1,700).

Three Ottoman coral and turquoise-set gold damascened steel daggers dated 19th Century and mounted with coral from the Black Sea and studded with turquoise sold for €3,187,50 (Estimate: €1,200 - 1,700).

A stucco figure of seated Buddha, ancient region of Gandhara, 4th century AD

wearing long robes, elaborate headdress, earrings and necklace achieved €5,100 (estimate : €4,500 - 6,500).