Illuminated manuscript of the Shahnameh (Book of Kings)

Early 20th century interpretation of the 17th century tale

Finely detailed, vibrantly painted scene in gouache, gold leafing and ink on vintage paper flanked by Islamic text.

According to the Shāhnāma of the poet Firdausī, Jamshid was the fourth king of the world. He had command over all the angels and demons of the world, and was both king and high priest of Hormozd (middle Persian for Ahura Mazda).