A wonderful small, antique Islamic manuscript page with gouache illustration of man held in the mouth of a giant fish, I believe representing the story of Jonah (Yunus) and the Whale (or giant fish) which is mentioned in the Qur'an and frequently illustrated in manuscripts. From what I understand, as it appears in the Qur'an, Yunas has fled the city of Nineveh on a ship after failing to convince its people to accept Allah. He boards a ship, and is later thrown overboard by his shipmates during a storm, only to be swallowed by a giant fish, sent by Allah, who takes him to the bottom of the ocean. It is there, in the depths of darkness, that Yunas truly finds his faith, and is brought back to the surface and released. I believe it is the return to the surface depicted here, with an angel appearing to offer him clothing (signaling his return to society) as is often featured in illustrations of the story. Terrific color and details throughout, and I especially love the golden flames encircling our the head of our half-swallowed hero!
6 1/4" X 4 3/4" and in good antique condition, very rich color. Some stains and toning visible around the perimeter and one small left edge loss as documented.
You might also like
