"Surkha Captured by Faramarz is Condemned by Rustam", Folio 204v from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp

Author Abu'l Qasim Firdausi Iranian
 Painting attributed to Qasim ibn 'Ali Iranian
 Workshop director Mir Musavvir Iranian

Not on view

The hero Rustam, shown here on horseback wearing a leopard-skin hat, launched war to avenge the death of Siyavush, whom the Turanian king Afrasiyab had executed. Rustam was determined to cause Afrasiyab the same pain by having his son, Surkha, captured and killed. The Chinese‑style kite clouds, winding tree, and doll‑like rendition of the figures’ faces reflect Qasim ibn 'Ali’s grounding in the Turkmen painting tradition.

"Surkha Captured by Faramarz is Condemned by Rustam", Folio 204v 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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