As one of its periodical exhibits, the library of Niavaran Cultural Historic Complex in Tehran is displaying two precious Persian manuscripts.
‘Gulistan’ and ‘Bustan’, the two major works of Persian poet Sa’adi (1213-1291), one of the greatest medieval Persian poets, are the two manuscripts on show. The books went on display on April 21 for ten days to mark Sa’adi Commemoration Day.
The manuscript of Bustan was written in nastaliq (a traditionally predominant style in Persian calligraphy) by Mohammad Ibn Mahdi Ibn-Mohammad in 1865. The book is adorned with striking illuminations drawn by Mirza Abdul Vahab Maz’hab Bashi, Mehr News Agency reported on its Persian website.
Bustan (meaning orchard) was Sa’adi’s first work. The book contains the fruits of the poet’s long experience and his judgments on life, and contains a vast collection of anecdotes. It includes accounts of his travels and his analysis of human psychology. He often gives his accounts with fervor and advice similar to Aesop’s fables.
The Gulistan manuscript on show was written in nastaliq by calligraphy master Haji Mohammad Ibn-Mohammad Ebrahim in 1804.
Gulistan (rose garden) is a landmark of Persian literature, perhaps its single most influential work of prose. Gulistan is a collection of poems and stories, just as a rose-garden is a collection of roses. It is widely quoted as a source of virtue and wisdom. The book explores almost every major issue humankind faces, with optimistic and a subtly satirical tones. Most pieces of the accomplished poet are directed towards rulers. Edward Backhouse Eastwick (1814-1883), British orientalist and diplomat who did an English rendering of Gulistan in verse and prose, in a preface to his book says, there is a common saying in Persian “Each word of Sa’adi has seventy-two meanings”.
Niavaran Cultural Historic Complex is located in the vicinity of Bahonar (Niavaran) Square.
