QAJAR IRAN, 19TH CENTURY

Details

A MICROMOSAIC (KHATAMKARI) INLAID CHAIR
QAJAR IRAN, 19TH CENTURY
The decoration comprising delicately inlaid stellar motifs within two bands of roundels or palmettes, each panel with ivory-inlaid large bold nasta'liq against a ground of gold scrolling tendrils, leather seat
35 3/8in. (90cm.) high

Engraved

What a throne, like a bed of Eglantine [Rose] leaves and Tulips
Most liken it to the stars in Yemen
What a throne, The khatam work of the lustrous Iskandari
What a throne, Worthy of Khusraw and God (Judge and ruler of the universe)
What work of khatam, it is studded with the jewels of Eden
Khatam letters of Gold are in the wind, on the lips of October and May
The Shah’s name is on the lips of every man and woman, like a prayer or mantra
Once again the wind’s painterly motion has left chaotic spiralling patterns
There isn’t a throne like this on Earth’s round surface
Even the jealous sun has put up curtains to escape seeing it

Special notice

Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this lot into another country. Specified lots (sold and unsold) marked with a filled square not collected from Christie’s by 5.00 pm on the day of the sale will, at our option, be removed to Cadogan Tate. Christie’s will inform you if the lot has been sent offsite. Our removal and storage of the lot is subject to the terms and conditions of storage which can be found at Christies.com/storage. Please call Christie’s Client Service 24 hours in advance to book a collection time at Cadogan Tate Ltd. All collections will be by pre-booked appointment only. Tel: +44 (0)20 7839 9060 Email: cscollectionsuk@christies.com. If the lot remains at Christie’s it will be available for collection on any working day 9.00 am to 5.00 pm. Lots are not available for collection at weekends.

Sale room notice

Please note that the Gulf Cooperation Council has imposed a ban on the importation of Iranian goods to or via its member states. Please check with your shippers whether you will be able to ship Iranian artworks to the GCC member states prior to purchase.

Brought to you by

Sara Plumbly

splumbly@christies.com +44 (0)20 7389 2372

Lot Essay

The work on this chair with the scrolling background behind the bold nasta’liq inscription is closely comparable to that on a gaming board formerly in the Henri d’Allemagne Collection, sold at Sotheby’s, London, 9 April 2008, lot 215.

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