The Rawzat as-Safa is an epic historical anthology in seven parts, recounting the history of the origins of Islam, early Islamic civilisations and an in-depth history of Persia. This manuscript comprises the fourth part of the work, dedicated entirely to the life and descendants of Timur (Tamerlane) the Great. Mir Khavand (1433-1489) was a Persian historian who spent most of his working life in Herat, where he compiled the Rawzat as-Safa under the patronage of Sultan Hussayn Mirza Bayqara (r. 1469-1506), the last Timurid ruler of Persia.

With the ownership inscription and seal impression of Muhammad Taqi, possibly the eminent Mughal poet Mir Mohammad Taqi Mir (1725-1810 AD), principal poet of Delhi and court poet of Assaf ad-Dulah in Lucknow, best known for his mathnavi in Urdu Mu'amiat'i Eshq.

Illuminated manuscript on paper, in Farsi, part 4 only (of 7), 322 leaves (plus one later endleaf at rear), 375 x 235 mm; single column, 21 lines black naskh, significant words & sentences in red, illuminated headpiece in polychrome and gold opening the text, leaves ruled in turquoise, red & gold, some of this ruling oxidised causing closed tears (some of these repaired), a few marginal repairs to preliminary and penultimate leaves, some scattered spots, overall presentable example; housed in contemporary brown morocco with stamped central medallions and corner-pieces of gilt leather inlay, rebacked, doublures of brown morocco with central medallions and corner-pieces decorated with gilt filigree and coloured backgrounds, a little worn.