Illustration of the nervous system

Description

• Type: Illustration of the Nervous System
• Origin: From a Persian manuscript, estimated circa 1400 A.D.
• Provenance: India Office, London
• Size: 6'' by 3.6'' without frame; 10.75'' by 8.5'' with frame
• Condition: Fair – visible staining and wear on the manuscript
• Medium: Ink on paper with detailed anatomical illustration, framed for preservation
• Notable Features: Includes Persian script inside the head of the illustrated figure, indicating authenticity or connection to a specific manuscript.

Historical Context

This type of anatomical diagram reflects the traditional medical knowledge of the Middle Ages, heavily influenced by earlier Greek and Islamic medical texts. Persian manuscripts of this period were known for their precise medical illustrations, often used by scholars and physicians for study. Such manuscripts were integral to medical advancements, particularly in the Middle East and Europe.

Value Assessment

Rarity: Original Persian medical illustrations from this period are quite rare. The presence of Persian script further enhances its authenticity and value.
Condition Impact: The condition is fair, with staining present; however, this is common for manuscripts over 600 years old. The frame adds some preservation value.
Historical Importance: Manuscripts like this are highly sought after by collectors, museums, and academic institutions, particularly those focused on medical history or Islamic art.

Estimated Value

• Low Estimate: $800 – $1,200 (if determined to be a modern reproduction)
• Mid Estimate: $2,000 – $3,500 (if confirmed as an original manuscript illustration but with condition issues)
• High Estimate: $5,000 – $8,000+ (if verified by an expert as an authentic, well-preserved page from a recognized manuscript collection)

Recommendations

• Authentication: A professional appraisal from an Islamic art historian or manuscript specialist is recommended to confirm authenticity.
• Preservation: Consider consulting a conservator to address the visible staining and ensure long-term preservation.
• Sale Options: For higher returns, consider reaching out to auction houses specializing in rare manuscripts, Islamic art, or medical history.

Based on the provided image and description, there is a strong possibility that this illustration is indeed part of Tashrīḥ al-Badan (Anatomy of the Human Body) by Mansur ibn Muhammad ibn Ahmad, commonly known as Mansur's Anatomy. This manuscript is one of the most famous Persian medical texts from the early 15th century (though some copies were created in the late 14th century).

Key Identifiers that Suggest This is from Mansur's Anatomy:

1. Diagram Style:
   • The distinctive skeletal and nervous system structure shown in your illustration is characteristic of Mansur's Anatomy. His works were known for highly schematic figures, often showing the body with the head bent backward and the knees flexed — a defining feature in his anatomical diagrams.
   • The depiction of nerves in black and red ink is typical of Mansur’s medical illustrations, which aimed to differentiate anatomical systems clearly.
2. Persian Script Inside the Head:
   • Mansur's Anatomy often included labels in Persian within or around the anatomical structures. The presence of Persian script inside the head is a key indicator, as Mansur’s diagrams frequently contained detailed labels of cranial nerves, brain divisions, and spinal structures.
3. Date and Provenance:
   • The timeframe matches — Tashrīḥ al-Badan is known to have been created around 1396 A.D. with various copies circulating through the early 1400s. The manuscript played a major role in transmitting medical knowledge throughout the Islamic world and into Europe.
4. Artistic Elements:
   • The simplified, almost geometric illustration style aligns with known pages from Mansur’s works, which were intended to be accessible to medical students and practitioners.
5. Historical Background:
   • Mansur ibn Muhammad was a prominent Persian physician from the Timurid period. His Tashrīḥ al-Badanwas renowned for blending Greek, Indian, and earlier Islamic medical knowledge.

Conclusion

While the illustration's style and features strongly resemble Mansur's Anatomy, authentic verification is essential. Given the historical value, I recommend the following steps:

1. Seek Authentication: Contact a manuscript expert or Islamic art historian. Institutions like the British Library, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the Wellcome Collection have specialists in Persian medical manuscripts.
2. Compare to Known Manuscript Copies: Authentic pages from Tashrīḥ al-Badan are well-documented, and matching the style, layout, and labeling would provide strong evidence.
3. Consider Professional Conservation: Given the staining on your piece, a conservator experienced in manuscript preservation could improve its longevity and maintain its historical integrity.

Estimated Value (if confirmed authentic):

• $5,000 – $12,000+ depending on condition, completeness, and provenance.