Two lacquer penboxes, signed by Najaf 'Ali, Persia, Qajar, dated 1265 AH/1849 AD and 1272 AH/1855 AD

comprising two lacquered papier-maché boxes with rounded ends and sliding trays, the larger decorated with detailed depictions of battle scenes outside a fort, underside with gold overlaid floral motifs on a red ground, inscriptions to end of sliding tray with signature and date 'amal Najaf Ali, 1272'; the thinner penbox featuring a young maiden beneath a tree holding a flower, with figural portraits and hunting scenes on the sides, underside with gold overlaid trees and leafy foliage on a red ground, signed at the top 'ya Shah Najaf, 1265'

Both in general good condition, the larger penbox with minor losses to inner trays, the thinner penbox with some craquelure to surface, very slight abrasions on inner tray, otherwise in good condition, both bright, 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."

inscriptions

Signed 'Ya Shah Najaf, 1265' (1849) and 'Amal Najaf Ali, 1272' (1855)

One of the most celebrated lacquer masters of the Qajar period, Najaf 'Ali Isfahani (1795-1863 AD) often signed his works as Ya Shah Najaf, translated as 'Oh King Najaf', such as in the present examples.