This study examines the variations of decorative motifs in the illumination of Quran manuscripts in the Nusantara through a formalistic approach. The study employed a qualitative literature-based analysis of eight previous studies on illuminated Quran manuscripts. The selected studies were analysed to identify the types of motifs and the structural organisation of manuscript illumination. The findings identify 26 examples of decorative motif designs and four main structural components: text, colour, basic markings and format. The motifs are predominantly derived from natural elements, particularly floral, vegetal and tendril forms, alongside geometric, wavy, woven and other locally distinctive motifs. The analysis also shows that decorative structures commonly employ frames, domes, rectangular panels, headpieces and tailpieces, with symmetry and balanced compositions playing an important role. The variations found in Aceh, Terengganu, Patani, Penang and other Nusantara contexts demonstrate the influence of local culture and artistic traditions in Quran manuscript illumination. Overall, the findings show that Nusantara Quran manuscript illumination combines Islamic visual principles with local artistic identity through diverse motifs and structured decorative compositions.

Mazni Omar, Hartini Mohd Razali, Siti Fairuz Md Hashim, "Decorative Motifs in Nusantara Quran Manuscript Illumination: A Formalistic Analysis" International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development, V9(6): Page(224-227) November - December 2026. ISSN: 2581-7175. www.ijsred.com. Published by Scientific and Academic Research Publishing.