Firdawsi Presents His Work to Mahmud

Bihzad

Created:

Movement:

unknown

None

key Notes:

Courtly patronage, Persian miniature.

Dimensions:

medium:

Opaque watercolor on paper

Difficulty:

Intermediate

New game

story of the work:

"Firdawsi Presents His Work to Mahmud," attributed to the Persian painter Bihzad, illustrates the moment when the poet Firdawsi presents his epic poem, the Shahnameh, to the Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni, highlighting the cultural patronage of literature in the 11th century. This painting, part of the Persian miniature tradition, exemplifies Bihzad's mastery in composition and detail, reflecting the significance of artistic and literary collaboration in the Islamic Golden Age.

Description of the work:

"Firdawsi Presents His Work to Mahmud," attributed to the Persian painter Bihzad, is characterized by its intricate detail and vibrant color palette, showcasing a formal court scene. The composition features the poet Firdawsi presenting his epic poem, the Shahnameh, to the Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni, with figures rendered in a stylized manner that emphasizes their elaborate garments and the opulent setting.

Artwork Photograph Source:

Harvard Art Museum

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