A protective ta'viz, perhaps for a soldier

Source: http://www.christies.com/LotFinder/search/LOTDETAIL.ASP?sid=&intObjectID=4483379&SE=CMWCAT03+836425+%2D1781064421+&QR=M+1+0+Aqc0000900+811447++Aqc0000900+&entry=india&SU=1&SN=7038&RQ=True&AN=174
(downloaded Apr. 2005)

"QUR'AN SCROLL, PROBABLY IRAN, CIRCA 14TH CENTURY.
Arabic manuscript on paper, the scroll covered with prayers and verses from the Qur'an written in small sepia naskh, minor titles in gold, with a variety of illuminated panels containing the bismallah in kufic and naskh, including a small section with hands grasping a sword, other text contained within small cartouches, outer border of naskh in gold on red hatched ground, backed. 34 feet 6½in. x 4in. (1053.5 x 10cm)

Lot Notes:  This long scroll is a form of protective tawiz that would have been used to protect the bearer from disease or the dangers of travel or battle. The highly unusual inclusion of a small drawing of hands drawing a sword suggest that this may have been made for a soldier. It contains a wide variety of different decorative scripts, with the bismillah in particular done in a variety of different ways. The use of chinoiserie type floral decoration thoughout suggests a 14th century date.

A radiocarbon test performed by the Leibniz Labor für Altersbetimmung at the Christian Albrechts Universität in Kiel confirms the proposed dating and is available on request.."