Persian 84 silver and enamel box featuring Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque

An exquisite vintage Persian84 silver and enamel box adorned with a captivating enamelled depiction of the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque and floral decorations around the sides.

Hallmarked with 84 silver marks and Persian makers mark.

Dimensions:
Length: 12 cm
Width: 8.2 cm
Height: 2.5 cm
Weight: 303 grams

Condition: Minor signs of usage, age related wear, good and pleasant condition overall, please see photos for the better judgement of the condition.

ITEM LOCATION : United Kingdom
SHIPPING FEE: Complimentary Express & Insured Shipping
INCLUDED: Complimentary Gift Wrap Packaging & Certificate of Evaluation.
RETURNS: 14-Days Return Policy, Money-Back Guarantee.

The Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, situated in Esfahan, Iran, stands as a remarkable testament to Iranian architecture under the Safavid Empire. Its construction commenced in 1603 and concluded in 1619, orchestrated by the esteemed architect Mohammadreza Isfahani during the reign of Shah Abbas I. Unlike the Shah Mosque intended for public use, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque was designated for the royal court, evident in its lack of minarets and smaller scale.

During the 1920s, Reza Shah Pahlavi, influenced by Arthur Upham Pope, initiated significant reconstruction and repairs to the mosque. Originally, the mosque featured a tunnel connecting it to the Ali Qapu Palace, facilitating private access for the royal court. This design aimed to shield the women of the harem from public view, with guards stationed along the passage. However, today, visitors have access to the mosque, and the tunnel beneath the square is no longer in use.

Over time, the mosque has been referred to by various names, including "mosque with the great dome" and "mosque of great purity and beauty." European travellers, such as Jean Chardin, popularized its current name, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. Quranic inscriptions within the mosque, executed by calligrapher Baqir Banai, further solidify this name. Additionally, historical records indicate that Sheikh Lotfollah, a renowned imam, served as one of the first prayer leaders for the royal court in this mosque, suggesting a direct association between the mosque and the esteemed figure.