Torn Apart: The Shahnameh of Shah Tahmasp

This Digital Exhibition explores the parallels between the creation of the Shahnameh by Ferdowsi and the survival of one of the most famous manuscripts of the poem to remain in existence. To browse this exhibit, please use the menu display on the right. While there is no particular order that needs to be followed, the recommended path to follow is to explore each link in the order displayed to maximise the digital experience curated. 

Through this exhibit, you will be welcomed into the fantastic and mesmerising world of Ancient Iran where you will be greeted by the wonders and mysteries of Ferdowsi, the poet. As you meander through this exhibit, you will travel across centuries, as two contrasting narratives unfold before you. From the survival of Ferdowsi's epic, to the ultimate end to one of the most cherished copies of the Shahnameh to exist, the Shahnameh will be brought to life to depict a unique history of greed, power and status.