Qur’an stand, Iran

Folding lecterns, or 'rahla', are among the oldest and most valuable furnishings in a mosque. This example is inlaid with wood and gold stars and varnished on all sides except one.

Designed to support a large Qur’an, the Muslim holy book, early rahla were often made of luxury woods such as walnut or teak, and decorated with sumptuous inlay or openwork carving.

Purchased from the Church Missionary Society in 1965.

Accession number: 1965.12.46B