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 folio from the Persian manuscript known as *Tales of a Parrot* (Tuti‑nama).
About this work
Overview
This object is a single folio from the Persian manuscript known as *Tales of a Parrot* (Tuti‑nama). Rendered in black ink on a lightly textured paper, the page presents densely packed calligraphic text arranged in graceful, curved strokes. The composition balances tall ascenders and deep descenders, producing a visual rhythm that guides the eye across the surface.
Subject & Meaning
The manuscript narrates a series of moral and didactic stories conveyed through the voice of a parrot, a common literary device in Persian tradition for imparting ethical lessons. Each tale employs allegory and wit to explore themes such as justice, humility, and the consequences of hubris, reflecting the cultural values of its original audience.
Technique & Style
The script exemplifies a refined Persian calligraphic hand, likely executed by a professional scribe. Ink is applied with a fine reed pen, producing uniform, flowing lines that contrast sharply with the paper's pale tone. The careful spacing and consistent stroke weight demonstrate the scribe’s mastery of proportion and rhythm, hallmarks of high‑quality manuscript production.
History & Provenance
The folio is part of the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, which acquired it as an example of Persian literary art. While the exact date of creation is not specified, the style of the script and the manuscript’s format suggest it originates from the early modern period of Persian bookmaking, when illustrated tales were widely circulated.
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