Persian Miniature Painting in Lacquered Frame – Qajar Period, 19th Century Origin: Middle East Period: Qajar dynasty, 19th century Materials: Watercolour and ink on paper, heightened with gold; lacquered wood frame with inlaid decoration Description Finely executed Persian miniature painting depicting an animated rural everyday scene with figures, animals and architectural elements, rendered in the characteristic style of the Qajar period. The composition shows men engaged in daily activities, accompanied by livestock, trees and architectural structures, reflecting moral and philosophical themes typical of Persian narrative painting. The miniature is enhanced with genuine gold (leaf and/or shell gold), visible in the architectural details, borders and ornamental elements. Above the scene is a Persian inscription in classical Nastaʿlīq script, conveying a moral-philosophical reflection on human nature, virtue and truth. The text relates directly to the depicted scene and emphasizes that everyday life reveals the true character of mankind more clearly than words alone. The miniature is set within its original lacquered wooden frame, decorated with geometric patterns and inlaid light-coloured fragments (bone, shell or similar materials), a technique typical of high-quality Persian lacquer work of the period. The reverse retains the original wooden construction, confirming authenticity. The piece was intended for wall display: the original cord on the reverse is present and was used for wall mounting. Condition Miniature painting in good overall condition with well-preserved colours Original gold highlights present, with natural age-related toning Lacquered frame shows expected age-related wear, minor losses and cracks No modern restoration observed Overall, an authentic and attractive example of Persian Qajar miniature art. Dimensions Overall including frame: 47 × 22 × 4 cm Remarks Original artwork, not a reproduction Traditional Persian materials and techniques Originally designed for wall hanging (cord on reverse) Suitable for collectors of Islamic and Middle Eastern art