Lot 262A

19th C. Persian Qajar Carbon Steel Scissors - Calligraphic Blades

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Lot 262
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19th C. Persian Qajar Carbon Steel Scissors - Calligraphic Blades
19th C. Persian Qajar Carbon Steel Scissors - Calligraphic Blades
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19th C. Persian Qajar Carbon Steel Scissors - Calligraphic Blades

Estimate: $500 - $750
by Artemis Fine Arts
June 25, 2026 9:00 AM MDT (In Progress)
Live Auction
686 S. Taylor Avenue
Suite 108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Persia, Qajar dynasty, ca. 1800–1900 CE. A pair of hand-forged steel scissors whose long, tapering blades sweep to needle points, their inner faces enlivened with chased Arabic-script inscription set against a field of scrolling tendrils. The forged shanks open into pierced openwork shoulders, one looped finger-bow and one elongated arch, lending the implement an elegance that transcends its utility. Such finely wrought scissors served the Qajar scribe and bookbinder, trimming paper, parchment, and the gilded margins of illuminated manuscripts. The calligraphic embellishment, perhaps a maker's mark or a pious phrase, transforms a workshop tool into an object of refinement, prized as much for the smith's artistry as for its cutting edge. The dark patina and warm steel surface attest to long and careful use in the hand of a craftsman. Size: 5.9" L x 0.8" W (15.0 cm L x 2.0 cm W).

The Qajar period (1789-1925) witnessed a flourishing of decorative metalwork in which everyday implements, pen-cases, scissors, and writing tools, were elevated by chased inscription and pierced ornament. Scribal scissors of this kind were essential to the bookmaking trade, used to true the edges of folios and to cut paper for illumination and calligraphy, disciplines held in the highest esteem in Persian culture.

Cf. Harvard Art Museums, 2014.378 and 2014.377.

Provenance: private Essex, New York, USA collection

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Item # 202427

  • Condition: Excellent. Some light surface wear commensurate with age, but, otherwise, intact and excellent.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000