Lot 190: A LARGE OIL ON CANVAS DEPICTS MUHAMMAD ALI SHAH QAJAR, SIGNED JAFAR, DATED 1292 AH (1875)

The subject is shown three-quarter length with a dark mustache and a solemn expression, wearing a black astrakhan kula (tall hat) adorned with a gold-bordered green jewel and a fanned aigrette. The dark blue tunic is decorated with gold-toned epaulettes featuring rounded boss-like ornaments and a red standing collar with gold foliate embroidery. Two large rectangular breast plates inset with a grid of green stones, possibly representing emeralds, are positioned on the chest. A jeweled sash crosses the torso, secured with multiple buckles and circular medallions. The figure’s left hand rests on the hilt of an ornate, gem-encrusted sword. The portrait is framed by a vibrant teal oval set against a dark field. At the bottom center, a white cursive Persian inscription reads Amal-e Jafar (Work of Jafar) above the numerals 1292.

98 x 68cm