Painting of a Dancer

Unknown

early 19th century · Oil and gold on canvas · Islamic Art

The arch shape of this painting suggests it was intended for a niche in an architectural setting, probably a palace or pavilion, where it would have been displayed as part of a larger decorative program along with other portraits of the ruler, princes, and other members of the Qajar court. This painting depicts a beautifully dressed and bejeweled dancing girl, an entertainer at the court. The tassels of her garment swing with her movement, illustrating the dynamism of the scene.

Artist

Unknown

Date

early 19th century

Medium

Oil and gold on canvas

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

The Friends of the Department of Islamic Art Fund, 1971