Two pages from a manuscript of the 'Shah Nama' (Book of Kings) written by the poet Firdawsi around 1010; illustrations of King Bahram Chubina enthroned (right) and a shah receiving an embassy (left)

Rustam before Kay Kavous, 1341

This illustration was commissioned by al-Hasan Qivam al-Din w’al-Daula, an adviser to the Inju rulers (c. 1325–56) who briefly ruled the Iranian province of Fars, considered the ancient homeland of the Persian people. Here, the legendary warrior Rustam (in characteristic tiger robe) is seen with his retinue, greeting King Kay Kavous to report a victory. The flat, red background, textiles with Chinese-inspired lotus and peony motifs, and figures with cursory yet animated outlines—the spears literally pierce the surrounding text—characterize these rare paintings from the provincial Inju school.

Details
Title
Rustam before Kay Kavous
Role
Calligrapher
Accession Number
51.37.22
Curator Approved

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Two pages from a manuscript of the 'Shah Nama' (Book of Kings) written by the poet Firdawsi around 1010; illustrations of King Bahram Chubina enthroned (right) and a shah receiving an embassy (left)