Mirror Case Depicting the Meeting of Nasir al-Din Mirza and Tsar Nicholas I in Erivan and Satin Pouch 1829 - 1879

This intricate mirror case, created by the renowned Iranian artist Muhammad Isma'il Isfahani between 1829 and 1879, depicts the historic meeting of Nasir al-Din Mirza and Tsar Nicholas I in Erivan. The case is a testament to the rich tradition of miniature painting in Persia, employing vibrant colors and intricate details to portray the scene with astonishing accuracy. The scenes, executed in the traditional style of Safavid painting, unfold in three panels on the exterior, showcasing the grandeur of the meeting and the complex political landscape of the time. The mirror case, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a rare and precious artifact that offers a glimpse into the artistic and political world of 19th-century Iran.