A Qajar katamkari table
Persia, dated AH 1301/ AD 1883-4with circular top, the baluster pillar terminating in three downswept legs, profusely inlaid with micro-mosaic bone, brass, wood and lac forming geometric patterns, with a series of concentric star motifs to the centre of the top surrounded by cartouches filled with inscription in nasta'liq
72 x 50 x 50 cm.注脚Inscriptions: Persian verses, 'It is worthy of the gathering of the men of the kingdom of London (sic) [officials of British government], who would congregate around this round table. Also praise for the master maker who has created an image of the shining Sun as an ornament and has decorated it like the sky filled with numerous stars.' Ending with the date of completion 1301 (1883-4).