Iran Qajar, 19th century Neshat Esfahani, Diwan Ash'ar. Manuscript on paper with 15 lines of text per page in Persian nasta'liq in black ink spread over two columns on some sections, some terms in red ink. Double-page frontispiece illuminated in gold and polychrome, the text surrounded by floral margins and introduced by a sarlow decorated with arcatures adorned with floral scrolls, the Bismillah inscribed in a cartouche with a gold background. Throughout the text, several cartouches and frames are left undecorated. Papier-mâché binding with painted and lacquered decoration of a floral composition of roses and eglantines on a gilded background, the back covers painted red. 28 x 18 cm One binding plate detached and cracked, one corner cracked on the second, brown spots, some restorations, stains, folds, unfinished manuscript, frontispiece probably added later. The author of this collection of poetry is 'Abd ol-Vahhab Esfahani (1761 - 1828), one of the greatest poets of the Qâjâr period. Known by his pen name Neshat, he was active during the reign of Fath 'Ali Shah, who not only appreciated his poetry, but also placed his trust in him by appointing him Head of the Chancellery, then Minister of Foreign Affairs and finally Prime Minister at the end of his life.