Persian Miniature Painting of a Polo Match

A private form of painting that emerged in Persia during the 13th century, Persian miniatures were often kept in books or albums and served to illustrate the accompanying texts beautifully scripted in calligraphy. Dated to the late 19th century, this miniature painting on an earlier manuscript leaf depicts a lively polo match alive with players on horseback and cheering spectators in the background. Using pigments derived from minerals, vegetables, and precious stones, the painting is awash in brilliant color. It is matted behind glass in a gentle gilt frame.