A QAJAR POLYCHROME-PAINTED ENAMELLED COPPER QALYAN CUP
PROPERTY FROM AN IMPORTANT EUROPEAN PRIVATE COLLECTION
Iran, 19th century

Of typical flaring cylindrical shape, with an everted rim, the exterior painted in polychrome enamels following the typical Qajar arrangement of 'miniature portraits and floral bouquets', with four oval medallions filled with portraits of Qajar beauties alternating with lush bouquets of roses, carnations and irises, all set within a thin, flaming gold frame against a turquoise ground, the top and bottom decorated with gilt cloud-like patterns, the interior once with turquoise enamel, 8cm diam. and 5.5cm high.