Pen Box with Architectural Cartouches
dated A.H. 1156/1743–44 CE
Medium
Papier-maché; painted, sprinkled with mica, and lacquered
Dimensions
L. 9 1/2 in. (24.1 cm) Depth. 1 1/4 in. (3.1 cm)
Classification
Lacquer
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, Patti Cadby Birch Gift, funds from various donors, and Paul Anavian and Massoud Nader Gift, 2008
Accession Number
2008.246a, b
Tags
About the Artist
'Ali Ashraf · 1670–1800
'Ali Ashraf used his distinctive floral motif to decorate the extensive number of painted and varnished objects such as mirror cases and pen boxes. His patrons included Ahmad Khan Dunbuli, a Kurdish overlord, and members of the Afsharid dynasty (reigned 1736-1795). He also collaborated with Muhammad Hadi on several projects; both artists specialized in flower designs.