Art Institute of Chicago

Zal Climbing to Rudaba, page from a copy of the Shahnama of Firdausi

Iran

Date

Safavid dynasty (1501–1722), dated 1580/90

Medium

Opaque watercolor and gold on paper

Culture

Shiraz

Department

Arts of Asia

Institution

Art Institute of Chicago

Among the most beautiful examples of Islamic art are the illuminated manuscripts from Persia that portray legendary tales of heroism, love, and adventure. Zal Courting Rudabahis a page from a 16th-century version of the Book of Kings,the national epic of Persia. Below the lovers seen on the balcony are attendants, animals, architecture, flowering plants, and calligraphy (revered as an art form throughout the Islamic world), all carefully integrated into a rich, overall pattern. The painting's jewel-like quality is enhanced by its brilliant colors, including gold and blue, formed from the precious stone lapis lazuli.

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