Gordafarid Painting

This painting is one of Shahnameh's ( book of kings) stories, written by the Iranian famous poet, Ferdowsi. The story is about Gordafarid was a champion who fought against Sohrab (another Iranian hero, commander of the Turanian army) and delayed the Turanian troops that were marching on Persia. She is a symbol of courage and wisdom for Iranian women. Gordafarid learned that her leader had allowed himself to be taken as a slave. She found his behaviour so shameful that her rosy cheeks became pitch black with rage. With not a moment's delay, she dressed in a knight's armour, gathered her hair beneath her helmet and rode out from the fortress, a lioness eager to engage in battle.