"Rustam Shoots Isfandiyar in the Eye", Folio from a Shahnama (Book of Kings) 1305 - 1365

This folio, "Rustam Shoots Isfandiyar in the Eye", is a page from a Shahnama (Book of Kings) produced between 1305 and 1365, depicting the epic battle between the legendary Persian hero Rustam and his nephew Isfandiyar, as described in the Shahnama, the national epic of Persia, written by Abu'l Qasim Firdausi. The miniature is beautifully painted in vibrant colors, showcasing the detailed depictions of the characters and the surrounding landscape. The scene captures a dramatic moment in the story, as Rustam, riding a white horse, aims his arrow towards Isfandiyar's eye, symbolizing the tragic betrayal and ensuing conflict between the two figures. The folio is now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and serves as a significant example of the intricate artistry and literary tradition of the Shahnama.