Page of Calligraphy from an Anthology of Poetry by Sa`di and Hafiz

Art Historical Context

This exquisite page from an anthology of poetry brings together the verses of two beloved Persian poets, Sa‘di (13th century) and Hafiz (14th century), transcribed in the late 15th century by the renowned calligrapher Sultan ‘Ali al-Mashhadi. Working in the refined tradition of Persian manuscript production, al-Mashhadi created a harmonious balance between text and ornament. The page exemplifies how poetry and calligraphy were regarded as twin arts in Islamic culture, meant to be both read and visually savored. Executed in ink with delicate touches of opaque watercolor, silver, and gold on pa...