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The magic parrot of the merchant talks to the vizier’s son, from a Tuti-nama (Tales of a Parrot): Tenth Night

c. 1560
Mughal India, court of Akbar (reigned 1556–1605)
gum tempera, ink, and gold on paper
Painting only: 7.3 x 10.2 cm (2 7/8 x 4 in.); Overall: 20 x 13.2 cm (7 7/8 x 5 3/16 in.)
Gift of Mrs. A. Dean Perry 1962.279.84.b
Location: not on view
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The figure on the left touches his mouth in a gesture of surprise.

Description

The talking parrot, perched on the finger of the merchant, reveals his experience of being repeatedly traded for replicas. These many trades have spoiled the bet between the merchant and the vizier’s son. Members of the vizier’s court react to the story with shock. Together the two men ultimately confront the treacherous monk and their deceptive wives.
The magic parrot of the merchant talks to the vizier’s son, from a Tuti-nama (Tales of a Parrot): Tenth Night

The magic parrot of the merchant talks to the vizier’s son, from a Tuti-nama (Tales of a Parrot): Tenth Night

c. 1560

Lalu

Mughal India, court of Akbar (reigned 1556–1605)

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