Pen Box with Muhammad Shah Qajar, Haji Mirza Aqasi, and Other Officials c. 1834 - 1848

Curator: This is a pen box, attributed to Muhammad Isma`il, depicting Muhammad Shah Qajar, Haji Mirza Aqasi, and other officials. Editor: It's like a tiny stage! All those figures lined up, poised, as if caught between scenes. It's warm but restrained, wouldn’t you say? Curator: Absolutely. It’s interesting to see how the artist uses the horizontal space to convey a sense of procession or hierarchy. Notice how the central figure is larger and more brightly colored? That's Muhammad Shah. Editor: Yes, and that central figure sits upon what looks like a carpet—or a throne? Is he really the main character? His gaze doesn’t grab me; it’s more like he is resigned. Curator: I think it suggests a certain weight of responsibility. These boxes often held the tools of governance—the pen, ink—and the imagery served as a reminder of power and its duties. Editor: Maybe so. But for me, it captures the performative aspect of power. Everyone is arranged just so. Curator: A potent observation. It really makes you wonder about the stories and intentions hidden within this scene.