Pen Box with Marbled Design
This penbox by the lacquer painter Rajab 'Ali has a unique feature. The drawer, which slides out from the right, contains a second smaller drawer. The marbled decoration and the cartouches containing the "engine-turned pattern" exemplify a style that developed in the second quarter of the 19th century, demonstating a close affinity with the traditional art of bookbinding.
Artwork Details
- Title: Pen Box with Marbled Design
- Artist: Rajab 'Ali
- Date: dated 1256 AH/1840–41 CE
- Geography: Made in Iran
- Medium: Papier-maché; painted, gilded, and varnished
- Dimensions: H. 1 3/8 in. (3.5 cm.)
W. 1 5/8 in. (4.2 cm.)
L. 9 1/8 in. (23.2 cm.) - Classification: Lacquer
- Credit Line: Purchase, 2017 and 2018 NoRuz at The Met Benefits, 2023
- Object Number: 2023.505
- Curatorial Department: Islamic Art
More Artwork
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early 19th century
Fathallah Shirazi (Iranian, active 1850s–80s)
mid-19th century
Aqa Buzurg Shirazi (Iranian, active ca. 1840–1860)
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Muhammad Isma'il Isfahani (Iranian, 1814–1892)
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