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 painted page from the illustrated manuscript known as the *Tales of a Parrot* (Tuti‑nama).
About this work
Overview
This object is a painted page from the illustrated manuscript known as the *Tales of a Parrot* (Tuti‑nama). The sheet functions as a text page rather than a full illustration, and it was produced as part of a deluxe volume intended for a princely patron, identified as Prince Salim.
Subject & Meaning
The page contains a continuous block of Persian prose rendered in elegant black calligraphy. The narrative content relates to the moral and romantic stories that comprise the *Tuti‑nama*, a work traditionally used to convey ethical instruction and courtly ideals to a young ruler.
Technique & Style
The calligraphic script is executed with meticulous precision, each letter formed with uniform strokes that give the text a flowing, harmonious appearance. A thin red line borders the page, while minute dots and dashes interspersed among the words serve as punctuation, enhancing readability and decorative balance.
History & Provenance
Created for Prince Salim, the manuscript reflects the patronage practices of the Safavid court, where illuminated books were commissioned for royal education. The page now resides in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, which acquired it as part of its holdings of Persian manuscript art.
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
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