"Gustaham Slays Lahhak and Farshidvard", Folio 349v from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp

Bashdan Qara|Abu'l Qasim Firdausi

ca. 1525–30 · Opaque watercolor, ink, silver, and gold on paper · Islamic Art

Although the commanders have agreed that the victors of the jousts will become the masters of the opposing army, Lahhak and Farshidvard decide to flee. In the Iranian camp Gustaham, who has stayed behind to command the army, volunteers to follow them and bring them to justice. The three meet in a plain, and Gustaham releases a volley of arrows, one of which pierces the skull of Farshidvard. Lahhak now shoots an arrow at Gustaham and hits his mark, but the Iranian draws his sword and stabs Lahhak in the throat.

Artist

Bashdan Qara|Abu'l Qasim Firdausi

Date

ca. 1525–30

Medium

Opaque watercolor, ink, silver, and gold on paper

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Arthur A. Houghton Jr., 1970