From Dohras (Songs) 40 and 42 from the Kitab-i Nauras (Book of Nine Essences) of Sultan Ibrahim Adil Shah II of Bijapur (r. 1580–1627); verso: From Dohras (Songs) 40 and 36 from the Kitab-i Nauras of Sultan Ibrahim Adil Shah II 1618 Part of a set. See all set records calligraphy by Khalilullah Butshikan (Persian, active in India 1596–c. 1620) India, Bijapur, Deccan Ink with two-tone gold on paper, double-sided Gift in honor of Madeline Neves Clapp; Gift of Mrs. Henry White Cannon by exchange; Bequest of Louise T. Cooper; Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund; From the Catherine and Ralph Benkaim Collection 2013.284 INSCRIPTION Deccani Urdu (Karnati) lyrics in nasta‘liq script: . . . because being itself a sea of knowledge, it could know good omens from the bad ones. Ibrahim is praying for its long life and prosperity. Give a patient hearing and listen to the description of the nine essences, which I am just giving to you. Its rhythm is chatak sam, its note is madhyam. It is very creative. Ibrahim sings and plays and attracts and forgets to have attachment to wealth and riches. (after Ahmad 1956, 116–17, 141–42); Verso: Deccani Urdu (Karnati) lyrics in nasta‘liq script: We are the true devotees of Shiva, and our devotion and attachment to him are daily towards increase. “Karnati” is a lady of surpassing beauty, with white complexion resembling kevra flower, is dressed in a blue sari and a yellow bodice. Her hands resemble the white esculent lotus in tenderness, and the eyes are similar to the ordinary lotus in attraction. It is the spring season, and the Indian cuckoo, sitting on the heavenly tree is vociferating. The lady who is suffering from the pangs of separation is advised not to be grieved, for her lover would soon arrive.” (after Ahmad 1956, 114–16, 140–42) EXHIBITION HISTORY The Cleveland Museum of Art (7/31/2016-10/23/2016); Art and Stories from Mughal India, cat. 51, p. 245.

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