A Zand lacquer penbox (qalamdan) Persia, mid-18th CenturyA Zand lacquer penbox (qalamdan) Persia, mid-18th Centurywith rounded ends and sliding tray, decorated in polychrome and gilt, the top with cartouches depicting perching birds amidst floral sprays on a ground of floral motifs, the sides with further cartouches containing floral motifs, the base and sides of inner tray with floral interlace, with old label inscribed with owners name 22 cm. longA label to the inner base bears the owner's name, 'Husayn Miftah, no. 8'. Two penboxes purchased from Husayn (Hussein) Miftah are in the British Museum (1964.1218.4 and 1964.1218.3).For a similar example, see N. D. Khalili, B. W. Robinson & T. Stanley, Lacquer of the Islamic Lands, Part I, Oxford, 1996, p. 78, cat. 44.Important Notice to BuyersSome countries e.g., the US, prohibit or restrict the purchase by its citizens (wherever located) and/or the import of certain types of Iranian-origin works. As a convenience to buyers, Bonhams has marked with the symbol R all lots of Iranian (Persian) origin. It is each buyer's responsibility to ensure that they do not bid or import a lot in contravention of the sanctions or trade embargoes that apply to them.