A simurgh, in Majma’ al-ghara’ib

The Iranian simurgh’s exact form and qualities are much disputed, like those of the phoenix or its North American relative the thunderbird. It was traditionally portrayed with a canine head, pointed ears and a ‘peacock’ tail. In Persian literature, however, it is usually depicted in flight with fantastic swirling tail-feathers. In this bestiary, the author describes the simurgh as strong enough to easily carry off an elephant. It is said to lay an egg once every 300 years. Shown here: ff. 64r