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"The Marriage of Sudaba and Kai Kavus", Folio 130r from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp

Author Abu'l Qasim Firdausi Iranian
Painting attributed to Mir Musavvir Iranian
Painting attributed to Qasim ibn 'Ali Iranian
ca. 1525–30
Not on view
After defeating the king of Hamavaran, Kai Kavus demands his daughter Sudaba's hand in marriage. Her beauty astonishes him, and his advisers agree that she is a perfect match for him. They marry and begin a weeklong celebration. However, Sudaba's father then lures Kai Kavus to his palace and, after eight days of revelry, takes him and his men prisoner.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: "The Marriage of Sudaba and Kai Kavus", Folio 130r from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp
  • Author: Abu'l Qasim Firdausi (Iranian, Paj ca. 940/41–1020 Tus)
  • Artist: Painting attributed to Mir Musavvir (Iranian, active ca. 1525–55)
  • Artist: Painting attributed to Qasim ibn 'Ali (Iranian, active ca. 1525–60)
  • Date: ca. 1525–30
  • Geography: Made in Iran, Tabriz
  • Medium: Opaque watercolor, ink, silver, and gold on paper
  • Dimensions: Painting:
    H. 11 1/16 in. (28.1 cm)
    W. 7 1/4 in. (18.4 cm)
    Entire Page:
    H. 18 9/16 in. (47.1 cm)
    W. 14 9/16 in. (37 cm)
  • Classification: Codices
  • Credit Line: Gift of Arthur A. Houghton Jr., 1970
  • Object Number: 1970.301.20
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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