Bidspirit auction | MAHMUD MALIK AL-SHU'RA, QAJAR, VIEW

MAHMUD MALIK AL-SHU'RA, QAJAR, VIEW OF THE KAABA AND THE MASJID AL-HARAM, MECCA, 19TH CENTURY. - A large topographical painting executed in gouache and watercolour on paper. The work presents a detailed, flattened isometric view of the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca with the Kaaba at its centre. The composition encompasses the intricate architectural layout of the mosque's courtyards, the surrounding urban buildings, and stylized mountainous terrain in the background. A four-line calligraphic inscription in Persian Nasta'liq script is located in the lower right-hand corner. The inscription translates to indicate the work was commissioned by Mu'tamad al-Dawla and identifies the artist as Mahmud (Banda-yi dargah Mahmud). The painting is enclosed by a simple red-painted border. Approximately 100 x 66.5cm