New Naqqaliشاهنامه
A Noble Speaks of Mehrab's Daughter

A Noble Speaks of Mehrab's Daughter

From A8.1, Zal Visits Mehrab of Kabul. It illustrates A8.1.24–35 (to A8.1.38):

  • A8.1.24
    When Mehrab rose, Zal watched his noble frame,And spoke before the chiefs in loud acclaim:
  • A8.1.25
    “Who matched his grace when girded for the field?What equal frame has ever armor sealed?
  • A8.1.26
    In look and carriage who could rival him?What warrior stands his equal, life and limb?”
  • A8.1.27
    A noble standing near then raised his voice,And made Zal’s listening heart at once rejoice:
  • A8.1.28
    “My lord, he has a daughter fair of face,A wonder formed of beauty, form, and grace.
  • A8.1.29
    More radiant than sunlight after rain,From head to foot like ivory without stain.
  • A8.1.30
    Her stature is a saj-tree, straight and high,Her face a paradise beneath the sky.
  • A8.1.31
    Two musk-black kamands deck her shoulders white,Their ends like anklet-rings curl close and tight.
  • A8.1.32
    Her mouth a pomegranate blossom’s flame,Her lips the fruit that puts red gems to shame.
  • A8.1.33
    Two pomegranates swell upon her breast,Her narcissus eyes give every heart unrest.
  • A8.1.34
    Her lashes borrow darkness from the night,Her brows are bows drawn firm in perfect height.
  • A8.1.35
    Seek out the moon: it shines upon her face;Seek musk: it breathes from every darkened trace.

In the picture

Woodcut panels, identity sheets and banners © 2026 New Naqqali LLC, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0: share and adapt them for non-commercial use, with credit to New Naqqali. Rights & permissions.