November 2005
Tastes of Asia Rotation
A garden, terrace, and pavilion - key components of palaces in the Islamic world - provide the setting for preparations for a feast at the time of the enthronement of the Persian king Luhrasp. Persian palace architecture of the Safavid period is richly adorned with variegated tilework work ornamented with repeating geometric patterns and floral arabesques.

Gallery 11 Label June 2015

Preparation for a Feast: The Enthronement of Luhrasp
Folio from the Shahnameh
Iran, 17th century
Opaque watercolor on paper
This painting comes from a copy of the Shahnameh, a book that tells the story of the great kings of Iran. The image would have opened the section on Luhrasp, a legendary ruler who is said to have reigned for 120 years. Around the border of the painting is an illuminated border in jewel tones of shimmering gold, deep blue, and bright orange.
Museum purchase with funds provided by the Asian Arts Council and the Elsie S. Kimberly Bequest, 1968.5
Conservation funded by Ross and Kelly Afsahi
Last Updated: 2/8/2016