Page:Persian Literature (1900), vol. 1.djvu/15

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A PRISONER OF SPEAR AND ARROWS.

Hand-colored Artist proof from the original painting by P. H. Calderon.

The lot of woman in the ancient Orient was not happy. In times of war the as slav conquerors held as slaves the fair young women of their vanquished foes. The suppliant in Calderon’s famous painting is very likely making a strong plea for her freedom. She seems to have won her quest, for the attitude of the warrior is gracious and indicative of acquiescence.