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"Bahram Chubina Slays the Lion-Ape", Folio 715v 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. 1530–35
Not on view
To thank the Khaqan of Chin for granting him safe haven, Bahram Chubina resolved to rid his host’s land of Kappi the lion-ape, a ferocious creature that had devoured the Khaqan’s daughter. Mir Musavvir delighted in the depiction of the red- and green-eyed monster, rendering every detail of its scaly skin and bloody wounds with fastidious care. The bystanders raise fingers to their lips in astonishment as Bahram Chubina delivers the coup de grace.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: "Bahram Chubina Slays the Lion-Ape", Folio 715v 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. 1530–35
  • 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 3/4 in. (19.7 cm)
    Entire Page:
    H. 18 1/2 in. (47 cm)
    W. 11 3/16 in. (28.4 cm)
    Mat:
    H. 22 in. (55.9 cm)
    W. 16 in. (40.6 cm)
  • Classification: Codices
  • Credit Line: Gift of Arthur A. Houghton Jr., 1970
  • Object Number: 1970.301.74
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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