"Oxen amongst Foliage", Folio from a Manafi' al-Hayawan (On the Usefulness of Animals) of Ibn Bakhtishu' 1273 - 1324

This is a page from Ibn Bakhtishu’s “Manafi' al-Hayawan,” or “On the Usefulness of Animals,” created sometime between 958 and 1058. The painting depicts two oxen amidst lush foliage, a scene rendered with meticulous detail and vibrant colors characteristic of the period. During this time, the representation of animals served both scientific and symbolic purposes. In the medieval Islamic world, there was a fascination with the natural world, as it was seen as a reflection of divine creation. This interest often intersected with practical knowledge. The "Manafi' al-Hayawan" was part of a tradition of encyclopedic works aimed at understanding the natural world for medicinal and agricultural purposes. The oxen here are not merely pastoral figures; they represent an understanding of nature's bounty. The painting serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between humans and animals, and of the importance of agrarian life in medieval Islamic society. It’s a testament to a world where knowledge and art converged.