Since the Medieval Period, miniature painting enjoyed a glorious place in the courts of the Persian Empire. Such works were originally done in books or bound as collections of paintings. Sometimes these paintings would express religious themes or stories, like illuminated manuscripts. Other times, they would depict scenes from contemporary life or from important events in history. While some Islamic art forbade the depictions of the human figure, Persian art never prohibited the representation of the human form. Since these paintings were small and discreet—stored in private books and only shared privately, with select viewers—the portrayal of human characters was allowed. Larger, more-public works (like a painting on a wall) would be expected to adhere to the more severe restrictions. In time, some of these treasured little paintings on paper were painted on ivory.
The picture above, created in Pre-Revolutionary Persia (in the 1960's or 1970's), shows a vigorous hunt scene painted upon faux ivory. It is framed in a micro mosaic desk frame. The 3" x 5" frame, which can sit horizontally or vertically, can also be used to display a photograph. Click on the photo above to learn more about it.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
We also can be found in Pittsburgh's historic "Strip District" at Mahla & Co. Antiques (www.mahlaantiques.com) or in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania at The Antique Center of Strabane (www.antiquecenterofstrabane.com).
Or call to arrange to visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only). 917-446-4248