Calligraphic Verses

Description This manuscript leaf, Walters W.713, is a sample of calligraphy in Nasta'liq script quoting verses by the Persian poet Sa'di Shirazi (died 691 AH/AD 1292). These verses were executed in Samarqand by Muhammad Amin ibn Baba Jan in 990 AH/AD 1582-1583. The blue, gray, and salmon borders are decorated with illuminated floral motifs.

Provenance Henry Walters, Baltimore [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.

Credit Acquired by Henry Walters