Lot 118: QAJAR SCHOOL, LATE 19TH OR EARLY 20TH CENTURY, 'A CALLIGRAPHIC COMPOSITION DEPICTING THE IMAM ALI (SHAMAIL)'.
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A calligraphic composition, known as a shamail, executed in ink and polychrome pigments on paper. The central seated figure represents the Imam Ali, depicted with a veiled face and a large radiant halo, holding the bifurcated sword Zulfiqar across his lap. The entire figure is meticulously composed of micrographic Arabic script, a technique known as ghubar. The figure is situated on a checkerboard ground decorated with floral motifs, flanked by two hanging lamps and a footed vessel on a stand. The composition is enclosed within a broad border containing the Ayat al-Kursi (Throne Verse) from the Quran in a flowing script. Three distinct panels at the base of the work repeat the Shi’a invocation La fata illa Ali, la sayfa illa Zulfiqar (There is no hero but Ali, no sword but Zulfiqar).
Approximately 52.9 x 39.2cm
Condition report:
The paper support shows signs of general age-toning throughout. There is a prominent liquid stain located at the upper centre, directly above the figure\'s head. The frame shows minor scuffing and wear consistent with age.
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