Muhammad 'Ali Shah Qajar

early 20th century

Not on view

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.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Muhammad 'Ali Shah Qajar
Date: early 20th century
Geography: Made in Iran
Medium: Silver gelatin photograph, oil paint, varnish, and shell gold
Dimensions: H. 8 in. (20.3 cm)
W. 5 in. (12.7 cm)
Classification: Paintings
Credit Line: Purchase, 2017 and 2018 NoRuz at The Met Benefits, 2019
Object Number: 2019.175
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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