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"Gustaham Slays Lahhak and Farshidvard", Folio 349v from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp

Author Abu'l Qasim Firdausi Iranian
Painting attributed to Bashdan Qara Iranian
ca. 1525–30
Not on view
Although the commanders have agreed that the victors of the jousts will become the masters of the opposing army, Lahhak and Farshidvard decide to flee. In the Iranian camp Gustaham, who has stayed behind to command the army, volunteers to follow them and bring them to justice. The three meet in a plain, and Gustaham releases a volley of arrows, one of which pierces the skull of Farshidvard. Lahhak now shoots an arrow at Gustaham and hits his mark, but the Iranian draws his sword and stabs Lahhak in the throat.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: "Gustaham Slays Lahhak and Farshidvard", Folio 349v 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 Bashdan Qara (Iranian, active ca. 1525–1535)
  • Date: ca. 1525–30
  • Geography: Made in Iran, Tabriz
  • Medium: Opaque watercolor, ink, silver, and gold on paper
  • Dimensions: Painting:
    H. 6 3/4 in. (17.2 cm)
    W. 6 7/8 in. (17.5 cm)
    Entire Page:
    H. 18 3/4 in. (47.6 cm)
    W. 12 9/16 in. (31.9 cm)
  • Classification: Codices
  • Credit Line: Gift of Arthur A. Houghton Jr., 1970
  • Object Number: 1970.301.47
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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