Mathnavi-ye Leyli o Majnun of Maktabi of Shiraz MS 10379 at Āyatollāh Marashi Najafi's Library, Qom

The present study is intended to introduce the MS of Maktabi's Mathnavi-e Leyli o Majnun, composed in 895 AH./1490 CE and preserved under No 10379 at Āyatollah Marashi's library. The description of the features and the dating method of this work have been executed according to the stylistic indications and a comparison of its images. The MS consists of 101 folios each of 10 x 6.5 centimeters. The text of the book is written in dāng-e ghobār and shekastehnastaliq styles. Illumination is limited to the beginning pages, further completed by the painting of tables and the drawing of 8 figures. The cover represents lacquer painting and a floral design. The MS was dedicated to the library in 1381 Sh./ 2002 and has no other specific feature but a round stamp, dated 1312 Sh., bearing the words "morājaa va taftish"(visiting and checking"). The significance of this codex is in its small format; thus it should be counted as an atypical MS. Based on comparative studies it could arguably be maintained that this MS belongs to the late Qajar era. The use of gol o morgh style (a design representing flowers and birds) for book covers belongs to the Shiraz School and, most probably, the scribing of it has taken place in the same city. Its images represent the Zand-period method of drawing figures, various modes and kinds of clothing.