Ottoman Turkish Manuscript.  FIRMAN (Sultan's Order).  This order was issued by Sultan Muhammad V (1844 – 1918 AD) on 19^th Rabī` al-Awwal 1330 of the Islamic year corresponding to 3^rd of August 1912 AD.  This is one of the early decrees issued by this Sultan since he became a Sultan on the 25^th of April 1909. 

As can be seen, the document bears the tughrā (Suttan's Signature) of Muhammad (reigned 1909 – 1918 AD) in gold script.  This is very long, one-leaf manuscript.  Size:  11 x 31 inches.  It consists of eleven lines, which are written in dīwānī script, in alternating black and red ink except for the first line, which is written in gold.  The black lines are sprinkled in gold.  Also, there are a few signatures on the back of the firman.

There is an embossed seal on the lower left hand corner.  The seal reads: Mamduh Alkaya Traducteur assermente Istanbuu 1948 [Mamduh Alkaya, Certified Translator, Istanbul, 1948].  There is another seal on the back which read:  Istanbul/Altinci Noterlir Dairesi [Istanbul/Sixth Notary Office] The same writing is inside the circle.   On both sides of the circle, the following is written:  Istanbul 6 ci Noterli Hamdi Selcuk. Nisan 1960 [Hamdi Selcuk 6th Notary, Istanbul, April 1960]

The condition of this firman is very good indeed, with minor effect of dampness on the left side of the firman.  Generally, I t is clean and crisp.  As usual, this firman is folded four times with minor tears at the corners.  Two of the folds are repaired no-acidic archival tape.   [code:F11]

Portrait of Muhammad V