"Bahram Gur in the Red Palace on Tuesday", Folio 220 from a Khamsa (Quintet) of Nizami of Ganja 1500 - 1550

This 16th-century illustration is a folio from a manuscript of Nizami Ganjavi’s Khamsa (Quintet), an epic poem from the 12th century, considered one of the masterpieces of Persian literature. The miniature painting, "Bahram Gur in the Red Palace on Tuesday" depicts a scene from the story of Bahram Gur, a Sassanid king of Persia. It showcases the rich artistic traditions of Safavid Persia and depicts the interior of a royal palace with detailed architecture, elegant costumes, and vibrant colors. The text at the top of the page is written in Persian and is part of the poem. This artwork is a stunning example of Persian miniature painting and serves as a window into the rich cultural heritage of the Safavid era.