
Ballpoint pen - Firdazsi's "Shahnama"
The manuscript was produced for the Persian Shah Tahmasp (1514–1576) in the 16th century. The miniature depicts astrologers at work at court. One of them is using an astrolabe to study the stars. It is a magnificent example of the rich Persian culture and refined artistry. It is regarded as one of the ‘Mona Lisas’ of Persian art.