Artwork
Page from Tales of a Parrot (Tuti-nama): text page
Page from Tales of a Parrot (Tuti-nama): text page is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1560 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This object is a single leaf from the illustrated manuscript known as Tales of a Parrot (Tuti‑nama).
About this work
Overview
A thin red border outlines the margins, and the entire surface is filled with dense black script arranged in tight, orderly columns.
This object is a single leaf from the illustrated manuscript known as Tales of a Parrot (Tuti‑nama). The sheet measures roughly the size of a standard page and is composed of a warm‑toned paper that has begun to yellow with age, displaying faint brown spotting near its upper edge. A thin red border outlines the margins, and the entire surface is filled with dense black script arranged in tight, orderly columns.
Subject & Meaning
The page contains continuous narrative text, suggesting it forms part of a larger story within the Tuti‑nama tradition, which typically relays moral or didactic tales through a parrot’s voice. No illustrative imagery accompanies the script, directing the viewer’s attention solely to the written content and its linguistic rhythm.
Technique & Style
The handwriting is executed in a precise, flowing black ink, with careful spacing that creates a uniform visual texture despite occasional line length variations. The script’s density and regularity reflect a disciplined calligraphic practice, while the red margin line provides a subtle decorative element that frames the text.
History & Provenance
The page is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection, where it is displayed as an example of manuscript art. Its acquisition history, dating, and previous ownership are not detailed in the available description, but its preservation within a major museum indicates recognized cultural value.
Artist & collection
Page from Tales of a Parrot (Tuti-nama): text page
Page from Tales of a Parrot (Tuti-nama): text page
Page from Tales of a Parrot (Tuti-nama): text page
Page from Tales of a Parrot (Tuti-nama): text page
Page from Tales of a Parrot (Tuti-nama): text page
Page from Tales of a Parrot (Tuti-nama): text page
Page from Tales of a Parrot (Tuti-nama): text page
Page from Tales of a Parrot (Tuti-nama): text page
