The folding Quran stand (rihal or porte-coran)

The folding Quran stand (rihal or porte-coran), particularly from the island of Anjouan, is an emblem of Islamic art and woodworking craftsmanship in the Comoros. Intricately hand-carved from a single piece of wood using interlocking hinges, these stands feature elaborate geometric rosettes and star patterns. Designed to elevate the Holy Quran off the floor during recitation and study, they hold significant religious and cultural prestige. Issued by the postal administration of the Archipel des Comores, this 35-franc postage stamp (POSTES) depicts a finely detailed Porte-Coran d'Anjouan set against a turquoise backdrop.