Iranian Miniature Painting: The Shahnameh (“Book of Kings”)
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The Hero Rostam Slaying the White Demon (detail)
Iran, Safavid dynasty, end of the 16th–first half of the 17th century (Private collection)Japanese Archaeology and Special Exhibition (Heiseikan) Thematic Exhibition Room
January 27, 2026 (Tue) - March 1, 2026 (Sun)The Shahnameh is an epic poem compiled by the Iranian poet Ferdowsi (born circa 935) around 1000 AD. It encompasses myths, legends, and history from the time of Iran's first king, Kayumars, to the fall of the Sassanid Empire (224–651).
This thematic exhibition explores the allure of Iranian miniature painting through a range of relevant characters and dynasties, such as Ferdowsi, the author of this literary work; the legendary Pishdadian and Kayanian dynasties; the Rostam and Goudarz clans, which produced many heroes; the Turanian royal family, which stood against the Iranian world ; and Alexander the Great.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | The Hero Rostam Slaying the White Demon | Iran | Safavid dynasty, end of the 16th–first half of the 17th century | Private collection | |||
| Highlight | The Fierce Battle Between the Hero Rostam and Sohrab | Iran | Safavid dynasty, end of the 16th–first half of the 17th century | Private collection |