A Drawing of a Prowling Lion, Isfahan, Persia, Safavid, 17th century

Pencil and ink on paper heightened with gold, laid down on an illuminated album page with gilt foliate borders, signed at the bottom middle 'Raqam-i Kamine Ibn Rahim'

In very good overall condition, one or two minute stains, otherwise clean and fresh, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The artist Ibn Rahim enjoyed drawing singular illustrations such as animals and lone figures, a theme which was to be revived by later artists of the Qajar period. The lion motif gained popularity in the seventeenth century when the impact of the simple line drawing was rediscovered, and was rendered by the great artists of the time such as Reza Abbasi and Mu'in Musavvir. With the rise of the Shi'a Safavids, the lion came to represent 'Ali, the 'lion of God'.