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. The object is a single page from the illustrated manuscript *Tales of a Parrot* (Tuti‑nama).

About this work

Overview

The object is a single page from the illustrated manuscript *Tales of a Parrot* (Tuti‑nama). Rendered on light‑colored paper, the page is dominated by a continuous block of black calligraphic script, bordered by a narrow red line that frames the text. The inked letters are linked in a fluid, precise hand, filling the surface from top to bottom.

Subject & Meaning

The page contains narrative text, forming part of the larger story recounted in the *Tales of a Parrot* manuscript. The script itself serves as the primary vehicle for the tale, conveying the plot and moral content without accompanying images.

Technique & Style

The calligraphy is executed in a refined, cursive style typical of Persian or South‑Asian manuscript traditions, characterized by smooth, connected strokes and consistent line weight. The thin red border provides a subtle visual cue that separates the text from the surrounding paper, enhancing readability.

History & Provenance

The page is presently held by the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is displayed as part of the museum’s collection of historic manuscripts. Its acquisition details and earlier ownership are not specified in the available information.

Context

Manuscript pages such as this were produced for literary works that combined visual elegance with textual storytelling. The *Tales of a Parrot* belongs to a genre of animal‑centric moral tales that were popular in the region’s literary culture, often used for instruction and entertainment.

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.