Shahnameh شاهنامه

The Shahnameh (The Book of Kings) is an epic poem written circa 1000 A.D. It traces the history of Greater Iran. The game of Nard is mentioned but its description is not very clear.

Since the 14th century, copies of the Shahnameh are illustrated and allow to see a resemblance to backgammon. Among these illustrated copies, some scenes suggest that the starting position was the same as today.

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

This folio from 1300/1330 (Iran or Iraq) shows a game already begun.

It is written, in particular: بگوید در این تخت بازی نرد  "He shall explain, on this board, the game of nard."

The vizir Buzurjmihr hides 3 red pieces with his hand.

San Diego Museum of Art

On this folio from 1500 (sultanate India), it is written: نامۀ نوشین روان و نرد شطرنج و بوزجمهر  "The Letter of Nushirvan, Nard, Chess, and Buzurjmihr."

The vizir Buzurjmihr has moved 5 white pieces from their starting positions whereas the Black player has only moved 2. The Black player is behind in race because one the 2 pieces he moved was hit.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art

This folio from 1525 (Turkey) shows the starting position but only the black pieces are depicted.