Uploaded August 2021 | Updated September 2026, 1 day ago
A fearsome battle between two mounted warriors is the focus of MET curator emerita Dr. Sheila Canby’s latest Peer Perspective video for the #MuseumWithoutWalls.
From the Shahnameh (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp, the 16th-century painting she features illustrates the first of 11 jousts between champions or “rooks” from Iran and their foes, the Turanians. On the Iranian side of the first joust was Faribuz, son of Shah Kay Kavus, while the Turanians fielded Kalbad, the brother of the king.
As Canby explains, this ferocious scene is not only action-packed, but it also provides a tantalizing glimpse into the worldview of the leaders of Safavid Iran.
To learn more about this artwork in the Museum’s Collection (accession number AKM497): agakhanmuseum.org/collection/artifact/the-first-joust-of-the-rooks-fariburz-versus-kalbad-akm497
The Museum’s Peer Perspective series features fascinating commentary and little-known facts from globally recognized scholars who have helped us open new windows onto the masterworks in our Collection.
Bringing online Museum experiences to you is part of our mission to connect cultures and promote understanding between peoples. To learn more about how you can support the Museum by making a donation or becoming a Friend or Patron, please visit: agakhanmuseum.org/support
A fearsome battle between two mounted warriors is the focus of MET curator emerita Dr. Sheila Canby’s latest Peer Perspective video for the #MuseumWithoutWalls.
From the Shahnameh (Book of Kings) of Shah Tahmasp, the 16th-century painting she features illustrates the first of 11 jousts between champions or “rooks” from Iran and their foes, the Turanians. On the Iranian side of the first joust was Faribuz, son of Shah Kay Kavus, while the Turanians fielded Kalbad, the brother of the king.
As Canby explains, this ferocious scene is not only action-packed, but it also provides a tantalizing glimpse into the worldview of the leaders of Safavid Iran.
To learn more about this artwork in the Museum’s Collection (accession number AKM497): agakhanmuseum.org/collection/artifact/the-first-joust-of-the-rooks-fariburz-versus-kalbad-akm497
The Museum’s Peer Perspective series features fascinating commentary and little-known facts from globally recognized scholars who have helped us open new windows onto the masterworks in our Collection.
Bringing online Museum experiences to you is part of our mission to connect cultures and promote understanding between peoples. To learn more about how you can support the Museum by making a donation or becoming a Friend or Patron, please visit: agakhanmuseum.org/support
