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"Siyavush Stands Accused by Sudaba before Kai Kavus", Folio 163v from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp

Author Abu'l Qasim Firdausi Iranian
Painting attributed to 'Abd al-Vahhab Iranian
Workshop director Mir Musavvir Iranian
ca. 1530–35
Not on view
Kai Kavus marries a second wife, a Turanian princess, who gives birth to a son, Siyavush. Because the boy has an ill-omened horoscope, Kai Kavus sends him to be reared by Rustam in Zabulistan, but when he comes of age, he returns to his father's court. Soon afterward his mother dies, and Kai Kavus recommends that Siyavush seek solace with his first wife, Sudaba. She falls in love with Siyavush, and when he spurns her advances, she claims that he tried to rape her. Kai Kavus questions his wife and son and determines the innocence of Siyavush, but decides the matter should be kept secret.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: "Siyavush Stands Accused by Sudaba before Kai Kavus", Folio 163v from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp
  • Author: Abu'l Qasim Firdausi (Iranian, Paj ca. 940/41–1020 Tus)
  • Artist: Painting attributed to 'Abd al-Vahhab (Iranian)
  • Workshop director: Mir Musavvir (Iranian, active ca. 1525–55)
  • Date: ca. 1530–35
  • Geography: Made in Iran, Tabriz
  • Medium: Opaque watercolor, ink, silver, and gold on paper
  • Dimensions: Painting:
    H. 11 in. (27.9 cm)
    W. 7 3/8 in. (18.7 cm)
    Entire Page:
    H. 18 5/8 in. (47.3 cm)
    W. 12 5/8 in. (32.1 cm)
  • Classification: Codices
  • Credit Line: Gift of Arthur A. Houghton Jr., 1970
  • Object Number: 1970.301.23
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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"The Murder of Iraj," Folio from a Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Firdausi, Abu'l Qasim Firdausi Iranian, Ink, watercolor, and gold on paper
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