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"The Combat of Rustam and Ashkabus", Folio 268v from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp

Author Abu'l Qasim Firdausi Iranian
Painting attributed to Mirza Muhammad Qabahat
Workshop director 'Abd al-'Aziz
ca. 1525–30
Not on view
With daylight the battle resumes. Before the armies can clash, Ashkabus rides out from the Turanian side and starts to abuse the Iranians. After Ruhham tries unsuccessfully to shoot Ashkabus with arrows, Rustam enters the fray. He is on foot, having left Rakhsh to rest. He parries the taunts of Ashkabus, then shoots the Turanian's horse with a single arrow. After that, one arrow from Rustam's bow finishes him off.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: "The Combat of Rustam and Ashkabus", Folio 268v 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 Mirza Muhammad Qabahat
  • Workshop director: 'Abd al-'Aziz (active first half 16th century)
  • Date: ca. 1525–30
  • Geography: Made in Iran, Tabriz
  • Medium: Opaque watercolor, ink, silver, and gold on paper
  • Dimensions: Painting:
    H. 9 3/8 in. (23.8 cm)
    W. 7 5/8 in. (19.4 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: 1970.301.40
  • 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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