This page shares the scholars’ contributions to enrich the vast repository of knowledge housed within the Oriental Institute Library. It focuses on the unique collections generously donated by these scholars or their descendants, underscoring their enduring legacy and commitment to preserving the rich knowledge about Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa. With a history deeply rooted in the exploration of the world's diverse cultures, languages, and histories, the Oriental Institute has been a sanctuary for intellectual curiosity and a sanctuary for preserving the legacies of scholars who dedicated their lives to the study and understanding of the East.

Jan Rypka’s Legacy

One of the important legacies of scholars is Jan Rypka’s collection of rare manuscripts.Jan Rypka played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Oriental Institute, where he was among the first 34 members appointed by President Masaryk in November 1927. His contributions to the institute extended beyond his scholarly work, encompassing his organizational efforts during its formative years. Notably, he was instrumental in the founding of Archiv Orientalni, the institute's publication.

Rypka's personal collection within the institute includes several significant and renowned works. Among them is a Persian historian's writings, authored by Muhammad ibn Khvandshah ibn Mahmud, more commonly known as Mirkhvand. Another noteworthy piece is a medical treatise by Mir Muhammad Mu'min Husaini Tonekaboni, also known as Hakim Mu'min, who served as a physician and pharmacist in the court of the Safavid Shah Sulayman. This treatise contains a handwritten dedication and numerous handwritten notes in Farsi in the margins.Additionally, Rypka's collection encompasses a 19th-century Persian dictionary created by a poet and literary historian. This dictionary includes inserted pieces of paper that likely bear Rypka's handwritten annotations. Lastly, the collection contains poetry by Qaani, one of the most renowned poets from the Qajar era. It's important to note that aside from these mentioned items, Rypka's collection consists of various other significant and valuable materials that enrich the cultural and academic resources of the Oriental Institute.