"Rudaba Makes a Ladder of Her Tresses", Folio 72v from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp 1500 - 1550

"Rudaba Makes a Ladder of Her Tresses" is a miniature painting from the Shahnama (Book of Kings), a 10th century epic poem by Abu'l Qasim Firdausi. The illustration depicts the Persian queen Rudaba, who lets down her tresses to allow the hero Rustam to climb up to her balcony. This captivating scene highlights the beauty of Persian art and its rich literary tradition. The artwork is an example of the Safavid artistic style, which flourished between 1500-1550, in which the artists incorporated intricate detail and vibrant colors. It is currently on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.