Khusrow and Shirin

In this timeless masterpiece of Persian literature, the poet Hatifi (d.1520) reimagines the legendary romance of Sasanian King Khosrow and the beautiful princess Shirin. Originally written by Nizam Ganjavi in the 12th century, this is a tale of iconic encounters, sacrifice, and devotion. This artful rendering and annotated 2026 edition with translation by Perennifolio Press is built on the famous illustrated copy (dated 1498-99) at the Metropollitan Museum of Art. Hatifi's elegant and rhythmic narratives were already a cornerstone of Ottoman and Safavid courts. But this specific manuscript is notable for its paintings in Western Iranian style with some European artistic elements and that the calligraphy, illumination, gilding, and painting were all completed by a single artist who called himself Suzi ("the burning one").

This new aesthetic rendering includes a new page formatting, print of original framed manuscript pages and original illustrations and English translations set on navy colored pages. Enjoy your very own copy of this wonderful historic manuscript, which is exhibited in Metropolitan Art Museum in New York City, but now you get to touch its print and enjoy owning your own.

Perennifolio strives to create and revive evergreen works that transform us.