Lot 152: A PERSIAN QAJAR LACQUERED PAPIER-MACHE PEN BOX QALAMDAN, 19TH CENTURY

This 19th-century Persian pen box, known as a qalamdan, is constructed of lacquered papier-mâché in a traditional two-part sliding form with rounded ends. The top surface is decorated with three lobed medallions containing portraits of female figures in 19th-century Persian dress, by heavy, joined eyebrows and elaborate head coverings. One medallion depicts a figure holding a small child. The sides of the outer case feature a continuous narrative scene of women in a garden landscape, interspersed with architectural vignettes showing fortified buildings and bridges. The underside of the case is finished in deep red lacquer with gilt floral and foliate scrolling patterns. The sliding inner tray has red-lacquered exterior sides with gilt decoration and a turquoise-green painted interior. 

L: 23cm