Houri Standing in a Garden

Culture Iranian or

Culture Eşfahān, Iran

Date1600–1625

Mediumwatercolor, gold, and ink on paper

Dimensionsmounted sheet: 37 x 25 cm
overall: 42.6 x 31.6 cm

ClassificationsNon-Western Miniatures

Credit LineJerome Wheelock Fund

Terms

paper

Object number1935.25

DescriptionSafavid Dynasty; Young Woman holding a purse (vase)
Label TextThis painting is mounted on an album page with three medallions embellishing the illuminated border. In Islamic art, the medallions usually have lobed edges and are frequently filled with floral designs, such as those shown here. The central one is decorated with a symmetrical pattern composed of floral arabesques and stylized clouds. An identical floral scroll, with undulating branches, a lotus flower in the center and additional flowers, adorns the other two medallions. The image of a solitary youth or maiden gained popularity in the late sixteenth century and was a frequent subject of Riza, the most famous artist who worked for Shah 'Abbas I (r. 1587-1629). This depiction of a casually dressed young woman reaching into her purse bears a close resemblance to the master's style and was probably painted by his student or someone in his atelier. ProvenanceDemotte, New York NY

On View

Not on view