Shah Tahmasp I (1514–1576) Seated in a Landscape

Shah Tahmasp I, the second ruler of Iran’s Safavid dynasty, is shown kneeling pensively on a carpet under a willow on the banks of a stream, a book at his side. The luxurious fabrics of his robe and his bolster pillow, with sprigs and cloud motifs in gold, indicate his wealth and privilege. Even the fine white cloth of his turban is edged in gold, topped by a small cluster of jewels.