Page of Calligraphy

'Abd al-Rahim

dated A.H. 992/1584–85 CE · Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper · Islamic Art

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.

Artist

'Abd al-Rahim

Date

dated A.H. 992/1584–85 CE

Medium

Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Anonymous Gift, 1994