"Kai Khusrau, Gudarz and Giv Capturing the Demon's Fortress, Bahman (?)", Folio from a Shahnama (Book of Kings)

ca. 1430–40

Not on view

Kai Kavus, the king of Iran, promised that whoever could capture the impregnable fortress of Bahman in Azerbaijan would share his throne. Tus and Fariburz made the first attempt but were driven back by the terrible heat. Then Kai Khusrau sent a message to those guarding the fortress, saying that he came in God’s name and if the fortress was inhabited by divs (devils), God would vanquish it. At that moment, there was a thunderous crack in the ramparts and its walls disintegrated.

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Title: "Kai Khusrau, Gudarz and Giv Capturing the Demon's Fortress, Bahman (?)", Folio from a Shahnama (Book of Kings)
Author: Abu'l Qasim Firdausi (Iranian, Paj ca. 940/41–1020 Tus)
Date: ca. 1430–40
Geography: Attributed to India
Medium: Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper
Dimensions: H. 7 5/8 in. (19.4 cm)
W. 7 3/4 in. (19.7 cm)
Classification: Codices
Credit Line: The Grinnell Collection, Bequest of William Milne Grinnell, 1920
Object Number: 20.120.243
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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"Shah Jahan on a Terrace, Holding a Pendant Set With His Portrait", Folio from the Shah Jahan Album, Chitarman Indian, Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper — "Shah Jahan on a Terrace, Holding a Pendant Set With His Portrait", Folio from the Shah Jahan Album
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