Dancer

early 19th century

Not on view

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.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Dancer
Date: early 19th century
Geography: Attributed to Iran
Medium: Oil and gold on canvas
Dimensions: H. 41 5/16 in. (105 cm)
W. 27 7/8 in. (70.8 cm)
Classification: Paintings
Credit Line: The Friends of the Department of Islamic Art Fund, 1971
Object Number: 1971.22
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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