A Concertina-form album of four leaves from a manuscript of Firdausi's Shahnameh, Persia, Safavid, circa 1640

Of concertina form, comprising 4 illustrated leaves, each with a Shahnameh leaf laid down on matching blue album pages, the outer margins filled with large gold flowers, folios 1, 3 and 4 with 5-9 lines of text, written within 4 columns in black nasta'liq script within cloud bands against a gold ground, leather binding bordered in gold, with red doublures 

In generally good overall condition, abrasions to extremities, miniatures slightly rubbed, 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."

The four Shahnameh leaves are as follows:

1. Isfandiyar killing Bidirafsh with trumpeters in the background.
2. Rustam and Isfandiyar on thrones holding hands in recognition of their friendship.
3. Bahram Gur killing the dragon.
4. Rustam, on Rakhsh in the pit, kills Shaghad just before he dies.

The album was in the Royal Qajar Library and was inspected in 1315 AH (1897-8 AD).