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 page from the illustrated manuscript known as *Tales of a Parrot* (Tuti‑nama).
About this work
Overview
The object is a single page from the illustrated manuscript known as *Tales of a Parrot* (Tuti‑nama). Rendered on aged paper, the surface is covered with dense black calligraphic script arranged in tight, orderly rows. A slender red line borders the margins, and subtle greenish tones appear near the top of the sheet.
Subject & Meaning
The page contains narrative text, likely part of a larger story about a parrot, a common motif in Persian and Central Asian literature symbolizing wit and eloquence. The careful hand of the scribe suggests the work was intended for a distinguished patron, perhaps a member of royalty, emphasizing the cultural value of the tale.
Technique & Style
The script is executed in a fluid, slightly curved hand characteristic of high‑quality manuscript calligraphy. Tiny decorative dots and dashes punctuate certain letters, adding visual interest without disrupting the overall flow. The limited palette—primarily black ink, brown paper tones, a thin red border, and a faint green wash—reflects the restrained aesthetic of the period.
History & Provenance
The page is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection of Persian and Central Asian manuscripts. It was acquired as part of a larger group of *Tuti‑nama* leaves, which have been studied for their literary and artistic significance. The museum’s holdings provide comparative material for understanding the production and circulation of such texts.
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