Lot #150: Pair of Antique Persian Manuscript Paintings | Depicting Courtly Scenes | Circa 18th–19th Century

Historical Context & Origin Region: Indo-Persian Cultural Sphere (Northern India / Persianate India) Material: Ink, opaque watercolor, and mineral pigments on handmade paper; later European gilt frames with archival mats Period: 18th–19th century, Mughal or post-Mughal manuscript tradition (circa 1750–1850) Description This refined pair of Indo-Persian miniature manuscript paintings originates from a once-bound illuminated manuscript, each leaf combining narrative figural scenes with flowing Persian script. Executed in the classical miniature tradition, the compositions depict courtly and romantic encounters—one showing a mounted nobleman addressing a woman at a garden gate, the other portraying a seated royal figure attended by companions and a court poet or sage. Both pages retain their original painted borders and textual panels, confirming their origin as manuscript leaves rather than standalone paintings. The style, palette, and elegant calligraphy align with late Mughal and regional court atelier production, where Persian literary culture and manuscript illustration flourished well into the 19th century. The leaves are now professionally matted and framed, preserving the original manuscript view while allowing safe and attractive display. Features - Pair of original manuscript leaves from an Indo-Persian illustrated text - Hand-painted courtly and romantic narrative scenes - Persian (Farsi) manuscript calligraphy in black ink - Traditional palette using mineral and organic pigments - Original painted borders and ruled text panels preserved - Professionally matted and framed for display Cultural Significance Indo-Persian manuscript painting represents a sophisticated fusion of Persian literary culture with South Asian artistic aesthetics. Manuscripts commonly illustrated poetic epics, romances, and moral tales derived from classical Persian literature. Scenes depicting nobles, lovers, and sages emphasize devotion, refinement, moral instruction, and courtly life. Continued Persian manuscript production in India reflects the lasting prestige of Persian cultural traditions across regional courts. Condition Very good antique condition overall. Both manuscript leaves show expected age toning, minor edge wear, and light surface abrasions consistent with manuscript use and later separation. Pigments remain vibrant and text legible. Frames show minor handling wear but remain structurally sound and suitable for display. Dimensions (Approximate) Manuscript sight (each): 5.25 in 3.25 in Overall framed dimensions (each): 11.75 in 9.75 in Age (Approximate) 170–275 years old Provenance From a Princeton, New Jersey collection. Subsequently held in a private collection in Pineville, Pennsylvania, USA. Acquired by the current owner in 2025. Dimensions: Overall framed dimensions (each): 11.75 in 9.75 in Pickup category timeslot {A} Price Estimate: CAD 400 - 650 Ships from Toronto, ON. No local pickup. Buyer arranges shipping and insurance directly with seller after auction closes.