Buzurgmihr Counsels Anushirvan (painting, recto; text, verso), folio from a manuscript of the Shahnama by Firdawsi
second half of the 16th century
Description
Firdawsi’s text here relates an exchange between the Sasanian ruler Khusraw Anushirvan (d. 578) and his vizier Buzurgmihr. Invited to join Anushirvan’s court after interpreting a dream of the king, the young Buzurgmihr became a trusted royal vizier, famous for his intelligence and wisdom. When an Indian envoy brought the game of chess to court to test the Iranians’ intelligence, it was Buzurgmihr who solved the mystery of how to play the game and in response invented backgammon. In the illustration, an enthroned Khusraw Anushirvan has gathered his advisors and ministers. Buzurgmihr has come forward; in the center of the composition, he kneels before the gesturing Anushirvan and writes his advice for the king. To the right, behind Buzurgmihr, the others are engaged in lively discussion. Recto. Text tells the story of Buzurgmihr counseling Nushirvan. Text corresponds with M. Ramazani (1963) vol. 4, pp. 470-71, lines 11208-11238. Ramazani subtitle reads, "Buzurgmihr counsels Nushirvan." Text corresponds with J. Mohl (1976), vol. 6, pp. 364-68, lines 2464-2494. Verso. Text continues the story of Buzurgmihr counseling Nushirvan . Text corresponds with M. Ramazani (1963) vol. 4, pp.472-73, lines 11239-11284. Text corresponds with J. Mohl (1976), vol.6, pp. 368-70, lines 2495-2540.
Dimensions
34.1 x 22.3 cm (13 7/16 x 8 3/4 in.)
Provenance
Stanford and Norma Jean Calderwood, Belmont, MA (by 1998-2002), gift; to Harvard Art Museums, 2002.
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