Muhammad 'Ali Shah Qajar

Unknown

early 20th century · Silver gelatin photograph, oil paint, varnish, and shell gold · Islamic Art

This is one of a handful of portraits of Muhammad 'Ali Shah Qajar, the sixth ruler of the Qajar dynasty who ruled for only two years (1907–1909). He attempted to abolish the Persian Constitution of 1906, claiming that it went against Islamic law. The painting exhibits a keen interest in photographic realism and speaks to the spirit of experimentation with new techniques and media which blossomed in Iran from the end of the 19th century. The juxtaposition of the sensitively drawn portrait of the shah and the sparse background draws the viewer's focus on his face.

Artist

Unknown

Date

early 20th century

Medium

Silver gelatin photograph, oil paint, varnish, and shell gold

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase, 2017 NoRuz at The Met Benefit, 2019