Exquisitely Framed Iranian Painting - Lacquer Ware

Exquisite and exotic. How often do you see artworks from Iran? Size 35cm by 29cm.

This lovely, detailed little painting is framed with a splendid lacquer ware frame, which is a work of art in itself.

One of the most interesting of Iran’s decorative arts, lacquer ware can be traced back to early Islamic times. Wooden objects are painted with pictures and designs, and then a transparent sandarac-based varnish is applied in successive layers for up to 20 coats. The result gives an impression of depth, lustre and great beauty.

Common designs include the popular Persian motifs of the nightingale and the rose, hunting scenes and battles.

The little paintings of men on horses, birds and flowers are thickly layered with paint before being varnished. This raises them from the surface of the wood giving a tactile, three dimensional aspect to the frame.

These items are entirely hand made by craftsmen – there are thus some minor flaws and errors – these are not uniformly manufactured factory items.