Page of Calligraphy

Calligrapher 'Abd al-Rahim Indian

dated 992 AH/1584–85 CE

Not on view

This page, signed by the celebrated calligrapher ‘Abd al-Rahim, includes four lines of poetry arranged diagonally in nastaʻliq script and interspersed with delicately rendered birds and flowers. The poem, written by the Persian poet and calligrapher Sultan ‘Ali Mashhadi (ca. 1440–1520), addresses the pain and suffering of this world, which presents an obstacle to rest and tranquility. The calligrapher of this page, ‘Abd al-Rahim, was honored with the title Ambarin Qalam (Amber Pen), given to him by the Mughal emperor Jahangir.

Artwork Details

Object Information

Overview

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

Provenance

Title: Page of Calligraphy
Calligrapher: 'Abd al-Rahim (Indian, active ca. 1580–1625)
Date: dated 992 AH/1584–85 CE
Geography: Made in India
Medium: Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper
Dimensions: H. 15 in. (38.1 cm)
W. 9 1/2 in. (24.1 cm)
Classification: Codices
Credit Line: Anonymous Gift, 1994
Object Number: 1994.359
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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