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

Art Historical Context

This exquisite page from a late 15th-century anthology showcases the poetry of the beloved Persian masters Sa‘di and Hafiz, masterfully transcribed by the renowned calligher Sultan ‘Ali al-Mashhadi. in the refined tradition of manuscript production, the work reflects the deep cultural reverence for poetry and the written word in Persian-speaking lands during the Timurid era. Such anthologies were often commissioned for royal libraries or discerning patrons, serving both as literary treasures and objects of aesthetic delight. Rendered in ink, opaque watercolor, silver, and gold on paper, the page highlights the luminous qualities of Persian calligraphy. The delicate interplay of script and decorative elements—possibly including subtle floral motifs or illuminated borders—demonstrates the high level of skill required to balance text and ornament. Measuring roughly 12 by 7½ inches, this folio was once part of a larger codex, reminding us how individual pages contributed to intimate, handheld books meant for quiet contemplation and repeated reading. Today housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Islamic Art department, the work invites visitors to appreciate how calligraphy elevated poetry into a visual art form, preserving the timeless verses of Sa‘di and Hafiz across centuries.