"The Coup against Usurper Shah", Folio 745v from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp
ca. 1530–35
Medium
Opaque watercolor, ink, silver, and gold on paper
Dimensions
Painting: H. 7 3/16 in. (18.2 cm) W. 10 7/16 in. (26.5 cm) Entire Page: H. 18 1/2 in. (47 cm) W. 12 1/4 in. (31.1 cm)
Classification
Codices
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Arthur A. Houghton Jr., 1970
Accession Number
1970.301.76
Rights
Public Domain
Tags
Art Historical Context
Behold the dynamic folio 745v from the *Shahnama (Book of Kings)* of Shah Tahmasp, titled *"The Coup against Usurper Shah."* This exquisite painting, created around 1530–35 by artist Dust Muhammad, depicts a chaotic battle scene from Abu'l Qasim Firdausi's epic 11th-century poem—the Persian national treasure chronicling the mythical and historical kings of Iran. Here, loyal forces overthrow a tyrannical usurper, with swirling armies, rearing horses, fluttering flags, and clashing warriors conveying the high drama of political upheaval in ancient Persia. Crafted in the Safavid court's Tabriz atelier under royal patronage, the work showcases the pinnacle of Persian miniature painting. Opaque watercolors, ink, silver, and gold on paper bring vivid life to the 7 3/16 x 10 7/16-inch composition, with fine details in armor, textiles, and dynamic poses that capture motion and emotion. The use of precious metals adds a luminous, jewel-like quality, reflecting the manuscript's status as a diplomatic and cultural treasure. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Islamic Art Department (gift of Arthur A. Houghton Jr., 1970), this folio exemplifies Safavid artistry's blend of storytelling, technical mastery, and opulence, inviting viewers to immerse in Persia's heroic legends.
About the Artist
Dust Muhammad|Abu'l Qasim Firdausi (Iranian|Iranian) · |0935 – |1020
Iranian, Herat late 1400s–1560s Qazvin|Iranian, Paj ca. 940/41–1020 Tus