Mid 20th Century Pair of Persian Miniature Paintings, Signed Behzad — Khatam Frames

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A pair of Persian miniature paintings in the classical Isfahan manner, each painted by hand on a shaped plaque inside … Read more A pair of Persian miniature paintings in the classical Isfahan manner, each painted by hand on a shaped plaque inside a serrated, leaf-like surround of painted flowers, and each set in its own khatam frame — the micro-mosaic inlay of wood, bone, and metal wire that Isfahan workshops have made for centuries. One shows a young musician with his lute beneath a blossoming tree, wine flask and cup at his feet; the other, a pair of lovers among the cypresses, the youth playing for his beloved.

Both are signed "Behzad" in white Persian script worked into the painting itself, and both backing boards are inscribed "Behzad" as well. The name is a homage: Kamal ud-din Behzad (c. 1450–1535) of Herat is the most celebrated master of the Persian miniature, and Iranian miniaturists have signed in his honor ever since. The subjects are the eternal themes of Persian poetry — music, wine, and love in a garden.

Gouache on ivory/bone plaques in khatam inlay frames. Musician: 11½″ H × 7½″ W; Lovers: 12½″ H × 7¼″ W; both ¾″ deep. Each frame has both an easel stand and a hanging wire — they can stand on a shelf or hang on a wall. Excellent condition — please review all photos, which show the exact pair you will receive. See less