Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by 'Abdurrashid, paint, 1800
Untitled, by 'Abdurrashid, paint, 1800

Untitled is a paint painting by the Romanticist artist 'Abdurrashid. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. Created around 1800, this unsigned work presents a calligraphic composition executed in opaque watercolour and gold on paper.

About this work

Overview

Created around 1800, this unsigned work presents a calligraphic composition executed in opaque watercolour and gold on paper. The central rectangular panel contains flowing black script set against a light ground, while the surrounding border is filled with delicate floral and foliate motifs in muted blues, greens and reds, framed by a dark blue band with gold detailing.

Subject & Meaning

The central inscription, attributed to a scribe known as Abdurrashid of Dilam, appears to be a poetic or devotional text rendered in an ornamental hand. Though the exact content is not specified, the decorative treatment suggests a reverential function, integrating the written word with a garden‑like ornamental setting.

Technique & Style

The artist employed opaque watercolour pigments combined with gold leaf to achieve a luminous contrast between the dark script and the pastel border. The decorative frame reflects a 17th‑century aesthetic, echoing earlier Persian manuscript traditions while adapting them to a standalone paper painting.

History & Provenance

The piece entered the museum’s holdings through the bequest of Harriet Sarah, Baroness Wantage, recorded in 1920–1921. Its design is based on a 17th‑century original, indicating a later copyist’s effort to preserve an earlier calligraphic model.

Untitled
Untitled, Mir 'Ali

Artist & collection

Artist

'Abdurrashid

This painter worked around the year 1800 and left behind at least one untitled painting from that time.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Untitled?

Untitled was painted by 'Abdurrashid in 1800.

Where can I see Untitled?

Untitled is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Untitled?

Untitled is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Untitled?

Museum-quality prints of Untitled are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.