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Pen Box with Architectural Cartouches
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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)

Collection

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

Classification

Lacquer

Department

Islamic Art

Rights

Public Domain

About 'Ali Ashraf

1670–1800Iran

'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.