Firdowsi - Shahnameh Manuscript - 1760

A single manuscript page written in Persian nasta’liq script, dating back to the 18th Century from the Shahnameh, The Shahnameh, or "Book of Kings," is an epic Persian poem by Ferdowsi detailing the history and mythology of Iran from the creation of the world to the Arab conquest in the 7th century. Comprising around 50,000 verses, the poem chronicles the mythical and historical reigns of Persian kings, their heroic deeds, and their conflicts with demons and evil forces. It is a foundational work of Persian literature, equivalent to Shakespeare's works in English culture, vital for preserving Iranian cultural identity and national spirit. The poet Ferdowsi dedicated his life to this monumental work, aiming to record ancient Persian history and lore before it was lost after the Arab conquests.

The page is plain text, divided into 4 columns of 25 lines of script in fine nasta'liq black ink, separated by a decorative floral column. A single decorative large chapter heading cuts across the central two columns, reducing these to 22 lines of script. The heading script is also nasta'liq in red within a gold cartouche with blue arabesque book ends. The gold has retained its lustre exceptionally well. The whole page is bordered by thick gold framing.

The scripted page is in good condition, and comes unmounted. The condition is very good with no evidence of worm holing and little dimming of the gold decoration.

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