The Death of Zahhak

The Death of Zahhak

This folio illustrates a scene from Abolqasem Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh which “recounts the history of Iran before Islam” (Canby 13). This scene is painted in vibrant colours with gold illumination on gold speckled paper. Moreover, it depicts the end of cruel King Zahhak’s reign as he is imprisoned by Feraydun in Mount Damavand. Within the mountain’s cavern, Zahhak is bound with illuminated gold chains and is rendered powerless with his arms outstretched and his lowered gaze. Although this folio marks Zahhak’s decline, it also represents the ascension of a new king through the figure of Feryadun. Feraydun assumes an authoritative position as he grips the ox-headed mace and points a finger at Zahhak in disapproval. Outside the cave, various men await Feraydun’s orders to seal the opening. At the base of the mountain is a hunting party (Aga Khan Museum, “The Death of Zahhak”) with men engaging in falconry and leading horses across the rocky terrain.

Sultan Muhammad

This folio was originally bound in the Shahnameh of Shah Tahmasp. However, the manuscript was unbound in 1970 by Arthur A. Houghton Jr. in order to distribute individual works to various museums and art collectors (Canby 18). As a result, it now exists as an individual folio.

Aga Khan Museum

ca. 1535

Aga Khan Museum

Paper

Not applicable

Tabriz, Iran