**Originally Listed At $500**

Islamic World, ca. 18th century CE. An Islamic illuminated manuscript page depicting a fascinating image depicting a human brain at the apex of a hill, with a winding tree-lined river leading toward the pink brain, billowing clouds in the skies beyond, and Arabic script handwritten in the margins. It is also possible that the artist extrapolated from this literal interpretation, using the natural world to stand in for other organs of the human anatomy. For example, the clouds which flank the eyes may represent eyes; the river beneath the brain perhaps represents the esophagus; the red spots to the right just above the trees may represent the stomach and/or the liver; finally, the trees and winding river may represent the intestines, with the trees assuming the shape of the large intestines and the river assuming the shape of the small intestines. Size (manuscript page): 6.4" W x 8.375" H (16.3 cm x 21.3 cm); (frame): 15.75" W x 17.75" H (40 cm x 45.1 cm)

Possibly created for an Islamic medicine manuscript, this mesmerizing composition is set in a custom matte and frame behind glass, wired for suspension and ready to display.

Provenance: rivate New Jersey, USA collection, acquired 2017; ex-private New England collection, USA

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#161099

This page has not been examined outside the frame, but appears to have slight tearing to some peripheral areas, with light staining and foxing to painted image and surrounding areas, otherwise appears intact and very good. Lovely remains of pigment and Arabic script.