"The Execution of Mazdak", Folio from a Shahnama (Book of Kings) 1305 - 1365

This folio from a Shahnama, or "Book of Kings," depicts the execution of Mazdak, a 6th-century Persian religious leader. The miniature painting, likely created between 1305 and 1365, showcases the Persian artistic style of the time, with its delicate lines and vibrant colors. The scene is depicted with dramatic detail, showcasing Mazdak's followers being hanged upside down as punishment for their beliefs. The inclusion of this historical event in a Shahnama highlights the importance of Persian history and literature in 14th-century Islamic art.