Qajar-Era Persian Hand-Painted Octagonal Ceramic Tile(19th Century)

A finely painted hexagonal ceramic tile from the Qajar dynasty of Persia , depicting a tender scene of two lovers in a lush floral garden.

The composition shows a male figure in a turban and blue robe leaning affectionately toward a female companion in a green dress, their faces delicately outlined in black. The surrounding field is richly decorated with stylized lotus blossoms and foliage, framed within a cobalt-blue border.

Executed in underglaze pigments of cobalt blue, turquoise, green, manganese brown, and black, the tile is finished with a transparent glaze that has developed a fine craquelure (network of crackle lines) consistent with age.

This romantic imagery reflects the Qajar love of poetic and courtly themes, often inspired by Persian literature and miniature painting traditions. Such tiles were used to adorn mansions, palaces, and garden pavilions, celebrating ideals of beauty, love, and refinement.

• Period: Late 19th – early 20th century

• Origin: Persia (Iran), Qajar dynasty

• Medium: Hand-painted ceramic tile with underglaze pigments

• Form: Hexagonal

• Condition: Good antique condition, with minor edge wear, surface soiling, and natural glaze crackling

A rare and evocative piece, this tile embodies the romantic and decorative artistry of Qajar Persia and would make a striking addition to any collection of Islamic or Middle Eastern art.

30cm x27cm