Lot 92
Central Asia, Persia, Qajar Dynasty, ca. 18th to 19th century CE. These two luminous illustrated folios come from a Persian manuscript of the Shahnameh, or "Book of Kings," the national epic of Greater Iran composed by Ferdowsi around 1010 CE. Each painting captures a different heroic episode, rendered in ink and gouache with vibrant pigments, architectural framing, and verse text above and below in Persian nasta'liq script. Together, they reflect the richness of Persian courtly tradition and the enduring visual power of epic storytelling. Size of page (both the same): 5.6" W x 10" H (14.2 cm x 25.4 cm); of frame: 14" W x 19" H (35.6 cm x 48.3 cm)
The first painting depicts one of the most tragic and enduring scenes in the Shahnameh: the fatal duel between Rustam and Sohrab. Unaware that they are father and son, the two mighty warriors meet in battle and engage in a fierce struggle. Rustam, the seasoned champion, delivers the fatal blow to Sohrab, who dies before the truth of their kinship is fully revealed. The miniature shows Rustam victorious while Sohrab lies stricken on the ground. Banners fly behind them and attendants watch from a rise, bearing witness to the momentous tragedy. Below, two richly adorned horses stand by a stream, symbolic of the vitality and lineage that unites and divides the fallen.
The second folio presents a heroic scene of solitary combat: a lone warrior stands triumphant over two slain tigers. In one hand he holds a curved dagger, and in the other, a shallow dish - perhaps filled with blood or meant as a ritual vessel. This depiction likely celebrates a feat of strength and virtue, turning animal combat into allegory. Behind him, a group of figures observe from a distant hill, gesturing in astonishment and reverence. The image conveys not only the might of the hero, but his moral stature as one who defends against chaos and proves his divine favor through trial.
The Shahnameh itself is one of the longest epic poems in the world and a foundational text of Persian literature. Spanning myth, history, and moral philosophy, it weaves the exploits of ancient kings and heroes into a national story of identity and endurance. Illustrated versions, especially during the Qajar period, were treasured for their vivid narratives and jewel-like imagery. These two pages, with their expressive color and flattened planes, reflect a continuation of Safavid miniature style into the later Qajar aesthetic.
Together, these folios offer a rare glimpse into the heroic ideals of classical Persia: the pathos of mistaken destiny, the triumph of righteous strength, and the eternal drama of fate. Framed as a pair, they invite contemplation of the poetic grandeur that shaped a civilization.
Provenance: private San Pedro, California, USA collection
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#193540
- Condition: Both are mounted behind glass in custom mattes and frames; have not been examined outside of glass. Some scuffs and loosening to frames that does not affect imagery. Age wear to fabric mattes with some pulls, marks and stains. Pages have some wrinkling, stains, and foxing, all commensurate with age, but otherwise display vibrant pigments and clear imagery. Suspension wires on versos for display.
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