Artwork

Page from Tales of a Parrot (Tuti-nama): text page

Page from Tales of a Parrot (Tuti-nama): text page, unspecified, 1560
Page from Tales of a Parrot (Tuti-nama): text page, unspecified, 1560

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 sheet from the illustrated manuscript known as *Tales of a Parrot* (Tuti‑nama).

About this work

Overview

This object is a single sheet from the illustrated manuscript known as *Tales of a Parrot* (Tuti‑nama). Rendered in black ink on a light, slightly yellowed paper, the page features a continuous line of flowing script that occupies most of the surface. Small marginal boxes, outlined in a thin red line, contain supplemental headings or annotations, giving the sheet a structured appearance.

Subject & Meaning

The text appears to be a narrative excerpt, likely drawn from a courtly storybook intended for an elite audience, possibly a princely patron. The careful, rhythmic hand suggests a purpose beyond mere record‑keeping; it was meant to be read aloud and appreciated for its literary and aesthetic qualities, reflecting the cultural value placed on storytelling in its original context.

Technique & Style

Executed with a fine brush and black ink, the calligraphy displays elegant, curved strokes that create a sense of movement across the page. The uniformity of the line work indicates a skilled scribe familiar with formal manuscript conventions. The marginal red borders are applied with a thin brush, providing visual separation without detracting from the dominant black script.

History & Provenance

The sheet originates from the *Tuti‑nama* tradition, a genre of Persian illustrated books that flourished in the early modern period. While the precise date and place of production are not specified, such manuscripts were typically created in royal workshops. The page now resides in a museum collection, where it is preserved as an example of literary art and calligraphic practice.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.