"Kai Khusrau Slays Afrasiyab", Folio from a Shahnama (Book of Kings) 1305 - 1365

This folio from a Shahnama, or Book of Kings, depicts the scene of Kai Khusrau slaying Afrasiyab. Painted in the 14th century, the miniature depicts the legendary Persian hero Kai Khusrau (identified by his crown and armor), striking down his enemy Afrasiyab, the king of Turan. This scene is a powerful testament to the epic scope of the Shahnama, a work of Persian literature by the poet Abu'l Qasim Firdausi, and is a compelling example of the vibrant miniature painting tradition of 14th-century Persia.