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 page from the illustrated manuscript known as *Tales of a Parrot* (Tuti‑nama).
About this work
Overview
This object is a single page from the illustrated manuscript known as *Tales of a Parrot* (Tuti‑nama). Executed on light‑tan paper, the surface is filled with dense black calligraphic script arranged in orderly rows and bordered by a thin red line. The page functions as a textual segment of the larger narrative work.
Subject & Meaning
The written portion records a segment of the *Tales of a Parrot* story, a literary composition created for a princely patron named Salim. The narrative, conveyed through the script, was intended for both instruction and entertainment, reflecting the courtly culture that valued refined literary expression.
Technique & Style
The calligraphy displays a precise hand, with a mixture of connected and isolated letters that reveal a disciplined approach to Arabic script. The uniform black ink contrasts with the pale paper, while the narrow red border frames the text, emphasizing its visual organization and readability.
History & Provenance
The page originates from a manuscript produced in the Islamic world, likely during the early modern period, for a royal patron. It now forms part of the collection at the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is displayed as an example of courtly manuscript production.
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
