"Kai Khusrau Enthroned Holding a Sword", Folio from the First Small Shahnama (Book of Kings)

Abu'l Qasim Firdausi

ca. 1300–30 · Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper · Islamic Art

This illustration from the Shahnama shows Kai Khusrau on his throne holding the sword with which he will execute Afrasiyab for the murder of Siyavush, bound and standing before him. Next to Afrasiyab is his brother Garsivaz, the actual murderer of Siyavush, and behind him is an executioner with his sword drawn. The elderly Kai Kavus, grandfather of Kai Khusrau, is seated beside his grandson. In spite of the grim scene, the style is delicate and courtly, as befits its origins in an important cultural center, possibly Baghdad which rapidly became a prominent Ilkhanid city after it was taken and partially destroyed by the new rulers in 1258.

Artist

Abu'l Qasim Firdausi

Date

ca. 1300–30

Medium

Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase, Joseph Pulitzer Bequest, 1934