AN ILLUSTRATED AND ILLUMINATED LEAF FROM A MANUSCRIPT OF FIRDAUSI'S SHAHNAMEH: NAHID, DAUGHTER OF THE CAESAR ARRIVES AT ISKANDAR’S COURT AND THE CELEBRATION OF HER MARRIAGE TO ISKANDAR, PERSIA, SHIRAZ, SAFAVID, 16TH CENTURY |

gouache and ink heightened with gold on paper, 11 lines to the page above and below the painting, written in nasta’liq in black ink within 4 columns, ruled in gold, green, red and blue, the reverse with 25 lines to the page in black nasta’liq, framed

Private collection, Lyon, France, early 20th century. 

In good condition, minor losses, flaking and retouching, the original leaf has been trimmed, stains, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This illustrated leaf and that of the following lot originate from what must once have been an extremely lavish Shahnameh. Several leaves from this same manuscript were sold in these rooms, 24 April 2014, lots 53 and 54; 8 October 2014, lots 63 and 64.