Wednesday, October 31, 2012

An erotic (Homosexual) Qajar lacquer Mirror-Case

Qajar Period, Iran
19th century
Size: 10.5 x 7.2 cm
Sold at Bonhams auction
Source: [1]

This mirror case is of rectangular form with removable cover, decorated in polychrome and gilt with a spray of roses to the reverse, a perching parrot to the cover and a male couple in an erotic embrace to the interior, the borders with a frieze of scrolling floral vines.

Friday, October 12, 2012

In fairy tales around the world

Vítězslav Kocourek: Za pohádkou kolem světa

Illustrated by Helena Zmatlíková. Prague 1957.

Monday, October 1, 2012

Men engaging in anal sex

Men engaging in anal sex, 

1660-1720 
Materials and technique: Gouache on paper 

These two paintings are possibly from Safavid period (1501-1736), although it is more likely that they was created during Qajar period (1794-1925).
نقاشی دو مرد همجنسگرای صفوی یا قاجاری
These images have been painted in an archaizing Safavid style. Usually, Qajar artists associated erotic scenes with the Safavid period. According to the museum's website, "The gold-painted accents, facial features, Chinese-inspired rolling clouds and the use of colored papers are all indications of the Safavid painting tradition. However, it is thought that it is likely that this work dates from the later Qajar period. The reason, apparently, according to the museum is that many erotic images were intentionally painted this way in hopes of attracting foreign collectors into paying more for its perceived antiquity.