A set of three late Eighteenth Century playing card in polychrome lacquer on a gilt ground: one of a Shah, one of a noble couple on a throne and one of a lion serving his mate. They are in fine, unrestored condition and measure approximately 2-3/8 inches by 1-5/8 inches each.
This charming old Persian brass box has delicate floral engraving over all of its metal surfaces. The top is inset with a section of polished banded agate. Circa 1900, about 3-3/4 inches long by 2-5/8 inches deep by 1-1/8 inches high.
An unusual example of of Persian metalwork -- possibly crafted in China for the Persian market -- in a graceful form. The widely flared top portion is deeply fluted and bears finely detailed engraving of flowers along its lobated edges. The uneven number of sections indicates that the piece was hand wrought, not cast. The bulbous body, also delicately engraved with floral motifs, has a plain collar above and an ogeed base below. Of thick gauge, the vase is formed of paktong (or tutenag, an a ...click for details
