Lot 63
  • 63

An illustrated and illuminated leaf from a manuscript of Firdausi's Shahnameh: Rustam Kills Isfandiyar, Persia, Safavid, Shiraz, 16th century

Estimate
6,000 - 8,000 GBP
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Description

  • Gouache, ink and gold on paper
gouache heightened with gold on paper, 4 columns of fine nasta'liq script in black ink sprinkled with gold, reverse with 25 lines of text and an illuminated heading 

Condition

In good overall condition, margins cropped, minor abrasions, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

Isfandiyar, son of Gushtasp, is promised the crown by his father if he can capture the Iranian hero Rustam. Reluctantly, they both enter a combat. On the second day, Simorgh, who recognises Isfandiyar as a true hero only defeatable through his eyes, advises Rustam to prepare an arrow with which he strikes Isfandiyar's eyes to kill him.

Both this illustrated leaf and that of the following lot originate from what must once have been an extremely lavish Shahnameh. Two bifolia and a painting of Gayumars' court from the same manuscript were sold in these rooms 9 April 2014, lots 10, 11 and 15, whilst further calligraphic pages were sold in the same sale, lots 8 and 9. Two further leaves were sold on 24 April 2014, lots 53 and 54.