An illustrated and illuminated leaf from a manuscript of Firdausi's Shahnameh: Rustam Killing the White Div, Persia, Safavid, Qazvin or Mashhad, 988 AH/1580 AD

gouache heightened with gold on polished paper, 6 lines of text in black nasta'liq script in 4 columns, reverse with 23 lines of text with a larger heading in red, further text written diagonally and vertically within the margins, ruled in colours and gold

In reasonably good overall condition, retouching to Rustam's face, thumbed, various small stains and occasional smudges, paper repair consolidating right hand leaf edge, 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."

As with the previous four lots, 'artist A', is considered responsible for the present painting, which would originally have been folio 85b.