"Zal Expounds the Mysteries of the Magi", Folio 87v from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp

Author Abu'l Qasim Firdausi Iranian
 Painting attributed to Qadimi Iranian
 Painting attributed to 'Abd al-'Aziz

Not on view

The Shahnama made for the Safavid ruler Shah Tahmasp (r. 1524–76) is the most luxurious sixteenth‑century copy of this poem about the legendary kings of Iran. It took more than twenty years to complete and involved two generations of the best Safavid artists, including Qadimi, painter of the scene here, who worked on many projects for Shah Tahmasp. In this painting, the hero Zal seeks advice on his wish to marry Rudaba from the wise Magi, seated at the foot of his throne.

"Zal Expounds the Mysteries of the Magi", Folio 87v from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp, Abu'l Qasim Firdausi (Iranian, Paj ca. 940/41–1020 Tus), Opaque watercolor, ink, silver, and gold on paper

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