
The Shah Rides Before Babak's Muster
From D13.4, Anooshirvan Orders the Army Assembled. It illustrates D13.4.28–39 (to D13.4.43):
- D13.4.28The king of kings gave ear to this command,And heard Babak’s decree across the land.
- D13.4.29He smiled, and called for jowshan and for helm,And raised the royal standard of the realm.
- D13.4.30With iron helmet fitted on his head,The Shah toward Babak’s office quickly sped.
- D13.4.31From Roman helm the chain-mail curtain flowed,Held fast by clasps as toward the gate he rode.
- D13.4.32He held an ox-head gorz, and round his waistFour shafts of poplar wood were firmly braced.
- D13.4.33His bow on arm, his coiled kamand there layAcross the saddle, ready for the fray.
- D13.4.34Around his loins there shone a golden band;He urged his charger on with tightened hand.
- D13.4.35He pressed the charger firmly with his thighs,And swung the heavy gorz before all eyes.
- D13.4.36He wheeled to left and right with practiced speed,Displaying to Babak both man and steed.
- D13.4.37When Babak had inspected horse and man,He came before the Shah and thus began:
- D13.4.38“O Shah, be blessed; may wisdom feed your soul;May all your rule keep justice as its goal.
- D13.4.39You have adorned the kingdom’s face with right,A memory that will not fade from sight.
In the picture
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