Art Funded by you

A Hunter on Horseback

Muzaffar 'Ali, 1540

This Persian painting depicts a hunter astride a majestic horse, turning backwards after having shot an arrow into the mouth of a lion which has lunged toward him. Despite the effaced turban baton (kula) and visage of the figure, the intricate arabesque of his saddle, saddle cloth, and robe indicate a high level of workmanship consistent with that of the court atelier of the Safavid Shah,Tahmasp (reigned 1524-76). The combination of minute perfection of detail, and freedom of palette and expression in the paintings of this period was not subsequently surpassed in Persian painting. In technique, the Hunter on Horseback is typical of works produced for inclusion in deluxe picture albums compiled for the nobility of Safavid Iran.

More information

Title of artwork, date

A Hunter on Horseback, 1540

Date supported

1995

Medium and material

Gouache & gold on paper

Grant

15000

Total cost

50100

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

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