Zal Rescued by the Simurgh

This illustration from the Shahnama (Book of Kings) depicts the rescue of the baby Zal. Cast out because of his white hair, which was perceived as an ill omen, Zal is rescued by the mythical Simurgh, which carries him to the safety of her nest. Although the manuscript contains no documentary information, it is generally accepted that this particular copy of the Shahnama was produced for Shah Abbas the Great, shortly after his accession in 1587.