"Bahram Gur Slays the Rhino-Wolf", Folio 586r from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp 1505 - 1560

This painting is from the Shahnama, or Book of Kings, created around 1530-35. The dynamic composition immediately captures the eye with its juxtaposition of the monstrous rhino-wolf and the hero Bahram Gur. Note how the artist uses a high horizon line and flattened perspective. This creates a dense, patterned surface, with forms layered upon one another, reminiscent of tapestry. The careful distribution of color, particularly the contrasting reds, blues, and greens, animates the scene and draws attention to key figures. The painting operates within a symbolic framework, evident in the hero's triumph over a mythical beast. This act, visually articulated through the precise rendering of figures and the dramatic use of color, elevates the hero to almost mythical status.