Qajar-era, Per - Qalamdan - Pen case - Papier-mache

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Qajar-era lacquered papier-mâché qalamdan pen box from circa 1850–1870, made in Japan by Qalamdan, decorated with three hand-painted oval portraits of military officers in gold frames; in good condition with signs of aging.

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Description from the seller

A fantastic Qajar-era qalamdan (pen box) from the mid-19th century (circa 1850–1870). Made in lacquered papier-mâché, this decorative pen case is richly painted in deep red and black lacquer with three oval portraits of military officers framed in gold.

The portraits are hand-painted in fine detail, showing uniforms adorned with medals, sashes, and epaulettes. Characteristic of Qajar court and military dress of the mid-19th century, when elites adopted European-influenced attire.
The gold decoration still glimmers beautifully in the light.

The interior retains traces of old black and brown lacquer with visible age patina. One section inside may show a faintly inscribed or painted area under the lacquer, visible in the last photo.

The lacquer remains stable and glossy with some small chips, surface wear, and natural crackling, all consistent with its age.
The piece is complete, firm, and well preserved, showing no structural breaks or repairs.

A historically fascinating and authentic example of Qajar lacquer art, representing craftsmanship and the military imagery of 19th-century.

Dimensions:
Length: 22 cm
Height: 4.5 cm
Depth: 4 cm
Net weight: 100 g

Please take a good look at the photos, which are an integral part of the description.

This lot will be carefully packed so it will get to its new owner exactly as it should.

A fantastic Qajar-era qalamdan (pen box) from the mid-19th century (circa 1850–1870). Made in lacquered papier-mâché, this decorative pen case is richly painted in deep red and black lacquer with three oval portraits of military officers framed in gold.

The portraits are hand-painted in fine detail, showing uniforms adorned with medals, sashes, and epaulettes. Characteristic of Qajar court and military dress of the mid-19th century, when elites adopted European-influenced attire.
The gold decoration still glimmers beautifully in the light.

The interior retains traces of old black and brown lacquer with visible age patina. One section inside may show a faintly inscribed or painted area under the lacquer, visible in the last photo.

The lacquer remains stable and glossy with some small chips, surface wear, and natural crackling, all consistent with its age.
The piece is complete, firm, and well preserved, showing no structural breaks or repairs.

A historically fascinating and authentic example of Qajar lacquer art, representing craftsmanship and the military imagery of 19th-century.

Dimensions:
Length: 22 cm
Height: 4.5 cm
Depth: 4 cm
Net weight: 100 g

Please take a good look at the photos, which are an integral part of the description.

This lot will be carefully packed so it will get to its new owner exactly as it should.

Details

Era
1400-1900
Over 200 years old
No
Material
Papier-mache
Manufacturer/brand
Qajar-era, Per
Designer/artist/maker
Qalamdan
Country of origin
Japan
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Estimated period
1850-1870
SwedenVerified
264
Objects sold
98.65%
protop

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