"The Feast of Sada", Folio 22v from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp 1500 - 1550

"The Feast of Sada" was made for the Shahnama of Shah Tahmasp, likely in the 16th century, using ink, colors, and gold on paper. The precious materials indicate this was a commission for someone of high status. Look closely at the vibrant pigments – lapis lazuli for the blues, vermillion for the reds. These would have been painstakingly ground by hand, mixed with binders, and applied in delicate layers. The gold leaf, too, would have required expert handling. The artist had to apply their skills within the established tradition of Persian miniature painting. The meticulous detail in the robes and faces speaks to the many hours of labor involved. This wasn't just a painting; it was a demonstration of wealth and refinement, a symbol of cultural power achieved through considerable expertise. The value of this painting lies not only in its aesthetic beauty, but also in the story it tells about the social and cultural context of its creation. It prompts us to reflect on the relationship between art, labor, and power throughout history.