Framed Persian Khatamkari Miniature Painting
Middle Eastern Fine & Decorative Arts

Framed Persian Khatamkari Miniature Painting

This item is a framed Persian miniature painting, likely originating from Iran (Isfahan region). The central artwork depicts a traditional scene, possibly a courtly hunt or a social gathering in an architectural setting, rendered in a delicate, multi-colored palette on a light background. A significant feature is the elaborate internal border or matting, which appears to be 'Khatamkari'—a traditional Persian technique of marquetry. This involves the intricate bonding of thin rods of wood, bone (often camel bone), and metal (frequently brass) to create dense geometric patterns. The outer frame is a classic thin-profile wood. Both the painting and the Khatam work showcase high-quality craftsmanship characteristic of 20th-century decorative arts. The condition shows some minor fading of the pigments in the central painting, typical for age. The frame and the intricate marquetry border appear largely intact, though there may be slight hairline cracks or missing tiny tesserae upon closer inspection, which is common for this labor-intensive medium. The overall presentation is that of a prestige souvenir or a high-end decorative object representing Persian cultural heritage.

Estimated Value

$450 - $650

Basic Information

Category

Middle Eastern Fine & Decorative Arts

Appraised On

March 8, 2026

Estimated Value

$450 - $650

Item Description

This item is a framed Persian miniature painting, likely originating from Iran (Isfahan region). The central artwork depicts a traditional scene, possibly a courtly hunt or a social gathering in an architectural setting, rendered in a delicate, multi-colored palette on a light background. A significant feature is the elaborate internal border or matting, which appears to be 'Khatamkari'—a traditional Persian technique of marquetry. This involves the intricate bonding of thin rods of wood, bone (often camel bone), and metal (frequently brass) to create dense geometric patterns. The outer frame is a classic thin-profile wood. Both the painting and the Khatam work showcase high-quality craftsmanship characteristic of 20th-century decorative arts. The condition shows some minor fading of the pigments in the central painting, typical for age. The frame and the intricate marquetry border appear largely intact, though there may be slight hairline cracks or missing tiny tesserae upon closer inspection, which is common for this labor-intensive medium. The overall presentation is that of a prestige souvenir or a high-end decorative object representing Persian cultural heritage.

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