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The decoration of this large pen box, one of the best known examples of bookbinder's lacquer, is of superb quality. The lid is painted inside and out with horizontal compositions. The top shows a landscape with trees and buildings of European type; in the foreground three Persian couples are depicted in various stages of amorous dalliance, and there are two girl musicians at the right-hand end. It has been suggested that the three couples, read from left to right, represent the triumph of mystic love over mere carnality. On the inside of the lid a brilliant bird and flower study, painted after a design by Muhammad Zaman, is set against a background of gold leaf, with roses, hyacinths, primroses and apple blossom, five beautiful birds and several butterflies.
The Khalili Collections
London
Title
Pen Box
Date
1124 AH (1712–1713)
Medium
papier-mâché body & lift-off lid with rounded ends & a lift-out inner compartment, all lined with leather
Accession number
910
Work type
Sculpture
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