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"Afrasiyab on the Iranian Throne", Folio 105r from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp

Author Abu'l Qasim Firdausi Iranian
Painting attributed to Bashdan Qara Iranian
ca. 1525–30
Not on view
Back in Dahistan the Turanians defeat the Iranians and take Shah Nauzar prisoner. With news of the Turanian rout in Zabul, Afrasiyab pillories Nauzar and beheads him. The Turanians march across Iran, and Afrasiyab sits on the throne. With this victory come the vast riches of the Iranian treasury, which servants parade before him. One year later famine descends on Iran and Turan, and the two enemies are forced to agree to an armistice.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: "Afrasiyab on the Iranian Throne", Folio 105r 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 Bashdan Qara (Iranian, active ca. 1525–1535)
  • Date: ca. 1525–30
  • Geography: Made in Iran
  • Medium: Opaque watercolor, ink, silver, and gold on paper
  • Dimensions: Painting:
    H. 11 5/8 in. (29.5 cm)
    W. 7 7/16 in. (18.9 cm)
    Entire Page:
    H. 18 9/16 in. (47.1 cm)
    W. 12 1/2 in. (31.8 cm)
  • Classification: Codices
  • Credit Line: Gift of Arthur A. Houghton Jr., 1970
  • Object Number: 1970.301.16
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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