Bidspirit auction | Persian miniature from Shiraz, Isfahan
Persian miniature from Shiraz, Isfahan and Tabriz. 18th-19th centuries. - A miniature illustrating epic episodes from the Shahnameh, with heroic poems and historical battles, on a rectangular panel of wood and polychrome lacquer, depicting a complex equestrian battle scene in the Persian style. The center of the composition is saturated with horsemen in stylized armor, wielding curved sabers, lances, and round shields, engaged in a lively melee. The faces and garments are meticulously rendered in a warm palette of reds, ochres, greens, and yellows, characteristic of the refinement of Persian miniatures. The border features a rich band of calligraphy in Arabic script, probably verses or an invocation taken from classical texts, and is further enhanced with animal motifs painted around the perimeter: felines, gazelles, hares, and birds, rendered in the spirit of a mythical bestiary. The piece is varnished and shows signs of use and minor alterations. Iran. Persian painting schools of Shiraz, Isfahan, and Tabriz. 18th-19th centuries. Lot in international warehouse (within the EU). Intra-EU shipment: no import duties apply within the EU. Export permit from the country of origin may be required.