"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

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.

"Siyavush Stands Accused by Sudaba before Kai Kavus", Folio 163v 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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