Pen Box (Qalamdan) Depicting Shah Isma'il in a Battle against the Uzbeks
Flag of IranIslamic ArtLacquerearly 19th century

Pen Box (Qalamdan) Depicting Shah Isma'il in a Battle against the Uzbeks is a lacquer from Iran created in early 19th century using papier-maché; painted and lacquered measuring H. 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm) W. 10 1/8 in. (25.7 cm) D. 1 7/8 in… — now part of the Islamic Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumPapier-maché; painted and lacquered
DimensionsH. 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm) W. 10 1/8 in. (25.7 cm) D. 1 7/8 in. (4.8 cm)
ClassificationLacquer
DepartmentIslamic Art
Credit LinePurchase, Elizabeth S. Ettinghausen Gift, in memory of Richard Ettinghausen; and Stephenson Family Foundation Gift, 2006
Dateearly 19th century

Historical Context

Geography

Origin: Iran. Flag of Iran

Frequently Asked Questions

What department houses Pen Box (Qalamdan) Depicting Shah Isma'il in a Battle against the Uzbeks?

Pen Box (Qalamdan) Depicting Shah Isma'il in a Battle against the Uzbeks is housed in the Islamic Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

When was Pen Box (Qalamdan) Depicting Shah Isma'il in a Battle against the Uzbeks created?

Pen Box (Qalamdan) Depicting Shah Isma'il in a Battle against the Uzbeks dates to early 19th century.

What material is Pen Box (Qalamdan) Depicting Shah Isma'il in a Battle against the Uzbeks made from?

Pen Box (Qalamdan) Depicting Shah Isma'il in a Battle against the Uzbeks is crafted from papier-maché; painted and lacquered.

Where does Pen Box (Qalamdan) Depicting Shah Isma'il in a Battle against the Uzbeks originate?

Pen Box (Qalamdan) Depicting Shah Isma'il in a Battle against the Uzbeks originates from Iran.

Is Pen Box (Qalamdan) Depicting Shah Isma'il in a Battle against the Uzbeks in the public domain?

Pen Box (Qalamdan) Depicting Shah Isma'il in a Battle against the Uzbeks is in the public domain and can be freely used.

Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026

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