426 - A QAJAR POLYCHROME LACQUERED AND PARQUETRY DECORATED WOODEN BOX, PERSIA, MID–19TH CENTURY

A QAJAR POLYCHROME LACQUERED AND PARQUETRY DECORATED WOODEN BOX, PERSIA, MID–19TH CENTURY A rectangular Persian lacquered and painted wooden box, finely decorated in polychrome with intricate khātamkari-inspired geometric and floral designs. The top panel features a symmetrical composition with three six-pointed star medallions within multi-banded borders of stylized flowers and arabesques, all outlined in warm red, orange, and gold tones. The sides are adorned with matching cartouches of minute interlacing patterns on a black ground, bordered by narrow red and gilt frames. The lid opens on iron hinges to reveal a plain green-painted interior, suggesting early lacquer over a wooden structure rather than papier-mâché. The overall decorative scheme combines lacquer painting and fine micro-mosaic influences typical of Qajar-era craftsmanship from Isfahan or Shiraz workshops. The box likely served as a writing or document case, intended to store correspondence, manuscripts, or personal valuables. Comparable Literature: M. Ekhtiar, Royal Persian Paintings: The Qajar Epoch 1785–1925, Brooklyn Museum, 1998. M. Barry, Lacquerware of Iran: A Survey of the Qajar Period, Tehran, 2007. Dimensions: 13 x 9 x 6 in., (33.1 x 22.9 x 15.2 cm.) Condition: The box retains its original lacquer surface with expected wear and craquelure from age. Some small losses to lacquer and rubbing along edges and corners. The lid is slightly warped. Minor splitting of the wood base is visible underneath. Lock mechanism partially intact, but key lacking. Interior with areas of oxidation and old green paint discoloration. Structurally sound overall, with attractive aged patina. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All statements contained in the catalog, condition reports, invoices, advertisements, or elsewhere concerning the authorship, attribution, origin, date, age, period, culture, source, provenance, authenticity, genuineness, condition, rarity, importance, or value of any lot are statements of opinion only and shall not be construed as representations, warranties, or statements of fact. All lots are sold "as-is", refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions does not offer in-house shipping. We will provide a list of recommended shippers upon request.