"A Bull", Folio from a Dispersed Nuzhatnama-i ‘Ala’i of Shahmardan ibn Abi’l Khayr 1400 - 1425

"A Bull" is a folio from a dispersed illustrated manuscript, *Nuzhatnama-i ‘Ala’i*, by Shahmardan ibn Abi’l Khayr, dating back to 1400-1425. The folio, currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, showcases a detailed depiction of a black bull amidst a vibrant landscape. This artwork, created by Shamardan ibn Abi’l Khayr, a noted artist of the 11th century, is a prime example of the artistic skill and naturalism characteristic of Persian manuscript illumination of the Timurid period. The intricate details of the bull, the floral motifs, and the surrounding text all contribute to the overall aesthetic richness of this folio.