Khatam Marquetry Qalamdan Pen Box With Hand-Painted Equestrian Miniature 1940s

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Antique Persian Khatam Marquetry Qalamdan Pen Box with Hand-Painted Equestrian Miniature, Circa 1940s

An exceptional Persian Khatamkari Qalamdan (pen box), … Read more Antique Persian Khatam Marquetry Qalamdan Pen Box with Hand-Painted Equestrian Miniature, Circa 1940s

An exceptional Persian Khatamkari Qalamdan (pen box), handcrafted in the celebrated tradition of Khatam-kari, one of the most prestigious decorative arts of Persia. Dating to the 1940s, this elegant rectangular sliding-lid pen case is meticulously decorated with intricate geometric micro-mosaic marquetry and crowned with a finely executed hand-painted miniature depicting a royal equestrian polo match.

Traditionally used by Middle Eastern Persian scribes, scholars, and government officials to store reed pens, writing instruments, and inks, the Qalamdan became an important symbol of education, refinement, and artistic patronage. This example beautifully illustrates the marriage of functionality and exceptional craftsmanship that defines Persian decorative arts.

The top lid features a richly detailed miniature painting portraying mounted horsemen pursuing deer across a stylized landscape, rendered in vibrant colors with remarkable attention to detail. The sides are decorated with exquisite Khatam marquetry, an ancient Persian micro-mosaic technique composed of thousands of tiny pieces of wood, bone, and metal meticulously assembled into intricate geometric star patterns. The interior is finished in black lacquer, while the sliding cover operates smoothly, preserving the elegant proportions characteristic of traditional Persian Qalamdans.

Khatamkari has been practiced in Persia for over four centuries and remains one of the country's most labor-intensive and highly respected crafts. Similar geometric inlay traditions later spread throughout India, where they became known as Sadeli mosaic, influencing Indo-Persian and Anglo-Indian decorative arts. The extraordinary precision of the geometric patterns reflects the Islamic artistic ideals of harmony, symmetry, and infinite design.

Originally intended as a writing case, this versatile piece also serves beautifully today as a jewelry box, keepsake box, pencil case, or luxury desk accessory. It is equally suited for display in a library, study, or curated collection of Islamic and Middle Eastern decorative arts.

Origin: Asia
Date: Circa 1940s
Materials: Wood, papier-mâché, hand-painted lacquer, Khatam marquetry (micro-mosaic inlay)
Style: Persian / Islamic / Indo-Persian

Dimensions:
Length: 8 in.
Width: 1.75 in.
Height: 1.25 in.

Condition: Very good vintage condition with light wear consistent with age and use. Beautiful original patina with finely preserved miniature painting and Khatam inlay.

An outstanding example of traditional Persian craftsmanship, this museum-quality Qalamdan is highly desirable for collectors of Islamic art, Persian antiques, miniature paintings, and Khatam marquetry.

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