The Koran Case is a precious-metal pouch used to store a miniature Koran, scroll with texts of ayat (excerpts from Koran) or dogalyk prayers. Such cases combine the functions of traditional jewelry and sacral items.

The exhibited round Koran Case is made with the filigree technique. This is a technique of making exquisite patterns of precious metal wire that look like a sort of metal lacework. The front side of the case is covered with a hinged dome-shaped lid. Five thin leave-shaped pendants are attached to the back side of the item.

The custom of carrying a Word of Allah on a person has a multi-century tradition in Islam. Cases for holy texts appeared in the Volga Bulgaria way back in the pre-Mongol period, and became very popular during the time of the Golden Horde. Traditions of manufacturing such items have been retained by Kazan Tatar jewelers for many centuries.

Richly decorated Koran cases were predominantly worn by women. Men would more often quilt separate surahs of Koran into their clothes. Women would hang the case on a chain and wear it as a necklace, or would fasten it to their ‘hasita’: a woman’s shoulder-belt. The latter was worn over the left shoulder under the right arm and was fastened on the back. The fabric substrate material of the top and middle parts of the belt were densely stitched with coins and plates of various shapes. Koran cases were attached to the bottom part of the shoulder belt. Such decoration containing sacred writings became a true charm.