June 2005
Tastes in Asian Art Installation
One of the most popular subjects for Persian patrons and artists is the history of the kings of Iran as related in the Shahnama. The Shahnama, the national epic of Iran, was composed by the Persian poet Firdausi around the year 1000.
One of the pre-Islamic Safavid kings, Luhrasp, sits on a covered outdoor throne in a garden; he is the focus of attention in this double-page frontispiece of a lavishly produced Persian book. He receives a cup of wine, while learned men of the court sit serenely by his side. This scene contains stock elements of an ideal paradise, with its outdoor walled garden setting, complete with cypress trees, fountains, dancers, and musicians. Figures at the left bring gifts of exotic animals, while the figures with the muskets in the foreground suggest the royal hunts that would take place in the extensive grounds.

Gallery 11 Label June 2014
The Enthronement of King Luhrasp
Folio from the Shahnameh
Iran, 17th century
Ink, opaque watercolor and gold on paper
The Shahnameh tells the story of the great kings of Iran, and this painting would have opened the section on Luhrasp, a legendary figure who is said to have ruled for 120 years. The scene spreads over two pages with copious gold illumination. Luhrasp himself appears on the right side of the painting, seated on his throne, a low platform with a canopy. He and his courtiers enjoy a performance by musicians and dancers. On the left side of the composition, other courtiers present the king with gifts of exotic animals.
Museum purchase with funds provided by the Asian Arts Council and the Elsie S. Kimberly Bequest, 1968.6.1 and 1968.6.2
Last Updated: 8/10/2022