"The Battle of Pashan Begins", Folio 243v from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp

'Abd al-Vahhab|Abu'l Qasim Firdausi

ca. 1530–35 · Opaque watercolor, ink, silver, and gold on paper · Islamic Art

When Kai Khusrau's letter arrives, Tus and his clan depart, leaving Fariburz in command of the Iranian army. After a one-month truce, another battle ensues, with Giv on the right and Fariburz in the center. In due course the Turanians break through the center, and Fariburz is forced to retreat. Although the tide is turning against the Iranians, Giv and his men stay the course, determined to fight beneath the banner of Kava, the symbolic apron of the blacksmith who rebelled against the evil tyrant Zahhak.

Artist

'Abd al-Vahhab|Abu'l Qasim Firdausi

Date

ca. 1530–35

Medium

Opaque watercolor, ink, silver, and gold on paper

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Arthur A. Houghton Jr., 1970