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"Rustam Slays Isfandiyar", Folio 466r from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp

Author Abu'l Qasim Firdausi Iranian
Painting attributed to Qasim ibn 'Ali Iranian
ca. 1525–30
Not on view
In another confrontation Rustam and Rakhsh are injured and retreat. Now Zal intervenes and summons the simurgh, his foster mother, who provides healing feathers and a special arrow. Once again Rustam and Isfandiyar meet in single combat, but thls time, though Isfandiyar's arrows miss their mark, Rustam's pierce the prince's eyes. As Isfandiyar lies dying, both he and Rustam know that this murder, no matter how it was provoked, will bring trouble down on Rustam's head.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: "Rustam Slays Isfandiyar", Folio 466r 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 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. 7 3/4 in. (19.7 cm)
    W. 6 11/16 in. (17 cm)
    Entire Page:
    H. 18 5/8 in. (47.3 cm)
    W. 12 5/8 in. (32.1 cm)
  • Classification: Codices
  • Credit Line: Gift of Arthur A. Houghton Jr., 1970
  • Object Number: 1970.301.55
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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