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. The object is a single folio from a Persian manuscript titled *Tales of a Parrot*.
About this work
Overview
The object is a single folio from a Persian manuscript titled *Tales of a Parrot*. Rendered in black ink on a light, slightly yellowed paper, the page is bordered by a thin red line. The calligraphy occupies the entire surface in orderly, flowing lines, with occasional ornamental flourishes that mark the beginnings of verses.
Subject & Meaning
The text belongs to a narrative collection composed for a princely patron named Salim. While the exact story on this leaf is not specified, the work as a whole is known for its moral and entertaining episodes, conveyed through the voice of a parrot that relays tales to its audience.
Technique & Style
The script exemplifies a careful, deliberate hand typical of high‑status Persian book production. Ink is applied in smooth, continuous strokes, creating a legible, elegant line. The red border, likely added with mineral pigment, frames the page and underscores the manuscript’s refined aesthetic, while the decorative initial flourishes hint at a modest illumination.
History & Provenance
Created for Prince Salim, the manuscript reflects the courtly culture of its era, where personalized books served both educational and prestige functions. The folio now resides within the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is displayed as an example of Persian literary art and the patronage practices of the period.
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