An illustrated and illuminated leaf from a manuscript of Firdausi's Shahnameh: Rustam lassoes Kamus, Persia, Safavid, Shiraz, circa 1560

gouache heightened with gold on paper, text written in four columns of nasta'liq script in black ink, interlinear and intercolumnar illumination, margins ruled in colours and gold, borders decorated in gold with flora; verso with 25 lines of nasta'liq text in black ink, small illuminated heading, margins ruled in colours and gold

In generally good condition, some minor flaking and creasing, thumbint and rubbing, small tears to edges, all associated with age, colours strong and bright, 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."

Rustam is arguably the greatest and certainly the most popular character in Firdausi's Shahnameh. Whilst all of Firdausi's characters are complex - some of the most evil have moments of humanity, and some of the kindest have moments of cruelty - Rustam is the closest to the archetypal hero. His legendary deeds include slaying the maddened white elephant of King Manuchehr with a single blow, and taming his faithful stallion Rakhsh.  In this episode we find Rustam again exhibiting his legendary strength and cunning, lassoing Kamus, the Khaqan of China.