In a recent exploration of the Kyzylorda Region, scholars from the National Center of Manuscripts and Rare Books in Kazakhstan made an extraordinary discovery of invaluable relics spanning three centuries.
Among the treasures unearthed were a trove of rare books and manuscripts, offering insight into the legal framework of Sharia law dating back to the late 18th century. Notable among these finds were editions of Ahmed Yassawi’s “Divan-i Hikmet,” originally printed by the prestigious Kazan publishing house in 1904 and 1912.
Additionally, the expedition yielded significant works such as Turkic-commented copies of the Quran, “Jami al-Rumuz” published in Egypt between 1909 and 1910, and the sixth volume of “Sharh Kanz ad Dakaik” from 1898. Many of these invaluable texts were part of the esteemed “Kanz ad Dakaik” collection, alongside a treatise on Sufism titled “Nur al-Ghashiqin.”
Regrettably, the condition of these remarkable discoveries was compromised due to their storage in chests and attics by local residents. Restoration specialists have initiated disinfection and insecticide treatments in the restoration-conservation laboratory to address these issues. Following these crucial steps, meticulous restoration procedures will commence, alongside the creation of copies to safeguard these cultural treasures for posterity.
Looking forward, the researchers have ambitious plans to extend their exploration to encompass national heritage artifacts housed in private collections. The expedition team also undertook visits to state libraries, museums, and archival institutions to enrich their research and deepen their understanding of the materials at hand.