"Bahram Gur Advances by Stealth against the Khaqan," Folio 577v from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp 1505 - 1560

This vibrant painting illustrates a scene from the Shahnama, the Persian Book of Kings, depicting Bahram Gur’s stealthy advance. The most prominent visual element is the horse, a symbol of power, nobility, and swiftness, deeply rooted in Persian culture. The horse and equestrian culture are recurrent motifs across cultures, from ancient Greek sculptures of triumphant riders to the powerful steeds in Renaissance battle scenes. Horses carry a psychological weight of virility and freedom, and their depiction here evokes a sense of dynamic movement and impending conflict. The repetition of horses in the frame resonates with the epic nature of the story, amplifying the emotional intensity and grandeur of the narrative. Note how the symbolism and imagery are not linear, but ebb and flow, resurfacing in different guises throughout history, and continuously evolving to reflect the changing cultural landscape.