The prince, a son of the ruler of Sistan, enters the service of a snake, from a Tuti-nama (Tales of a Parrot): Thirty-seventh Night c. 1560 Part of a set. See all set records India, Mughal, Reign of Akbar, 16th century Gum tempera, ink, and gold on paper Overall: 20.3 x 14 cm (8 x 5 1/2 in.); Painting only: 8.6 x 10.2 cm (3 3/8 x 4 in.) Gift of Mrs. A. Dean Perry 1962.279.245.b DID YOU KNOW? The snake is depicted as a cobra. DESCRIPTION A black snake rises from a hole to greet the prince of Sistan, in southeastern Iran. The prince, who had been wandering destitute through the wilderness has made a vow to serve the next living creature he meets. Although the snake is initially skeptical, he agrees to the arrangement and the prince is ultimately rewarded for his loyalty. PROVENANCE Estate of Breckenridge Long, Bowie, MD, 1959; Harry Burke Antiques, Philadelphia, PA; Bernard Brown, Milwaukee, WI;