Page from the Koran, c. 1350, 15 9/16 x 12 in. (39.53 x 30.48 cm) (image, sheet), Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper, Egypt, 14th century, This exquisite manuscript page typifies the artistic and technical virtuosity accorded illuminated books during the Mamluk period (1250-1517). By the 13th century, more cursive writing styles had replaced kufic as the preferred Koranic script. The main body of the text is written in a cursive style commonly called muhaqqaq script, characterized by tall, slender verticals and sweeping sublinear strokes. The chapter heading, framed in gold and vegetal ornamentation, is in thuluth script.