New Naqqaliشاهنامه
Rostam Sees the Token

Rostam Sees the Token

From B8.21, The Tragedy of Sohrab. It illustrates B8.21.32–39:

  • B8.21.32
    Undo my jowshan, bare my arm and seeThe token that my mother gave to me.
  • B8.21.33
    When koust resounded as I left her door,My mother came with blood-streaked cheeks before.
  • B8.21.34
    My leaving wounded deep her loving breast;She bound this token on my arm and pressed:
  • B8.21.35
    ‘This came from your father; guard it well,And see what use its hidden sign may tell.’
  • B8.21.36
    Now it has served when service comes too late;The son lies shamed before his father’s fate.”
  • B8.21.37
    Rostam undid the khaftan, saw the sign,Then tore his clothes, undone by grief’s design.
  • B8.21.38
    “O youth slain by my hand,” he cried in pain,“Praised in each gathering, known across the plain!”
  • B8.21.39
    He tore his hair and cast dust on his head;His face ran wet with tears for one near dead.

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.