Here is a comprehensive description of the two books shown in the image, their condition, and their rarity:
1. Description of the Books and Content
Book Title: Al-Husri: His Life, Literature, and Criticism in His Book 'Zahr al-Adab'.
Author: Dr. Hassan Abd al-Tawwab.
Publisher: Dar Abd al-Rahman al-Asimi for Publishing and Distribution (Riyadh).
Edition Details: Second Edition, 1404 AH - 1984 AD.
Content: An academic literary and critical study that addresses the life of the Andalusian/Qayrawani writer and critic Abu Ishaq Al-Husri Al-Qayrawani, and analyzes his study, critical, and literary style through his famous book "Zahr al-Adab wa Thamar al-Albab".
Volumes: Printed complete in two volumes (Volume 1 and Volume 2).
2. Condition Assessment of the Books
Cover: Original paperback cover in blue, decorated with an Islamic/heritage ornamental frame.
General Condition: Very good considering the age of the publication (over 40 years).
Visible Notes:
Paper Yellowing and Discoloration: There is slight natural yellowing on the edges and cover margins due to age and the type of paper used in the 1980s.
Edges and Corners: Very minor rubbing and wear on the corners and outer edges due to storage or reading.
Binding: The two books appear to be well-bound and in excellent structural condition, with no prominent writings or tears on the front cover.
3. Are the Books Rare?
Degree of Rarity: They are considered old and infrequently circulated editions (semi-rare).
Reason:
They were published by a local publishing house (Dar Abd al-Rahman al-Asimi) in 1984 and have not been widely reprinted commercially by modern publishers.
Books and academic studies specializing in the literature of Al-Husri Al-Qayrawani and "Zahr al-Adab" are sought after by name by researchers and specialists in ancient literature and criticism.
Conclusion: They are not ancient manuscripts, but they are an old edition with a nice research and museum value for book collectors and those interested in heritage literary studies.