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"Mihran Sitad Chooses a Daughter of the Khaqan of Chin", Folio from a Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Firdausi

Author Abu'l Qasim Firdausi Iranian
ca. 1330–40
Not on view
The miniature shows the Iranian envoy (at left) escorted into the women's quarters by the Queen of Chin (China) to choose a wife for king Nushirvan from among the daughters of the Khaqan (khan). Centrally placed and slightly isolated from the others is the only daughter who had royal blood on both sides, purposely made to look plain by her mother, in the hope that another will be chosen. The wily Iranian envoy, however, perceived her superior qualities and choose the royal princess.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: "Mihran Sitad Chooses a Daughter of the Khaqan of Chin", Folio from a Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Firdausi
  • Author: Abu'l Qasim Firdausi (Iranian, Paj ca. 940/41–1020 Tus)
  • Date: ca. 1330–40
  • Geography: Attributed to Iran, probably Isfahan
  • Medium: Ink, opaque watercolor, gold, and silver on paper
  • Dimensions: Page:
    H. 8 1/16 in. (20.5 cm)
    W. 5 1/4 in. (13.3 cm)
    Painting:
    H. 2 3/16 in. (5.5 cm)
    W. 4 7/16 in. (11.2 cm)
  • Classification: Codices
  • Credit Line: Bequest of Monroe C. Gutman, 1974
  • Object Number: 1974.290.38
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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