Double Frontispiece for the Kolliat, 16th century
Unknown artist, Iranexpand_more
Colors and gold on paperexpand_more
Bequest of Margaret McMillan Webber in memory of her mother, Katherine Kittredge McMillanexpand_more 51.37.35
Not on Viewexpand_more
This sumptuous double frontispiece has survived from a Kolliat manuscript originally written by the great Persian poet Sa'di. Illuminated opening pages such as these are typical of the ornate chapter headings, embellished script, and marginal decorations that frequently graced the Koran and other religious manuscripts, as well as literary classics. The decoration consists of a wide floral arabesque framing the central rectangular unit, which is, in turn, divided into three fields by braided and floral bands. Each of these units bears inscriptions in ornate cursive script. These two pages demonstrate a highly developed sense of design and an extraordinary virtuosity in the application of colors and gold leaf.
Details
- Title
- Double Frontispiece for the Kolliat
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 51.37.35
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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