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Instrument Case

dated 1204 AH/1789 CE
Not on view
This superbly painted lacquer vanity box consists of a rectangular frame with a drawer and a removable lid covering a mirror. The drawer is intended to hold the dressing set; it has compartments for a variety of implements such as a scissors, tweezers, and a comb. The outer surfaces of the case are covered with sensitively rendered bird and flower (gul-u-bul-bul) paintings while the inner surface of the lid features a lively feasting scene (bazm) that epitomizes the lyricism of Zand painting at its height. A prince and his lover sit on a verandah surrounded by courtiers and musicians, who serve them wine and refreshments and provide entertainment.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Instrument Case
  • Artist: Muhammad Baqir (Iranian)
  • Date: dated 1204 AH/1789 CE
  • Geography: Country of Origin Iran
  • Medium: Papier-maché and pasteboard; painted and lacquered
  • Dimensions: H. 13 13/16 in. (35.1 cm)
    W. 9 3/8 in. (23.9 cm)
    D.1 3/8 in. (3.6 cm)
  • Classification: Lacquer
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Goldman Sachs Gift, 2015
  • Object Number: 2015.252a–c
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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