Two Lovers

painting by Reza ʿAbbasi

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July 14, 2026

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The painting "Two Lovers" is a notable work from the Eṣfahān school of Persian miniature painting, created by the artist Rezā ʿAbbāsī. Active in the early 17th century, Rezā ʿAbbāsī was a leading master of this school, which flourished under Shah ʿAbbās I.

"Two Lovers" exemplifies the school's style, featuring stylized yet delicate depictions of hands, faces, and costumes, giving it an impressionistic quality. The figures are characterized by their curved, plump forms, reflecting the artistic trends of the late Ṣafavid court. Rezā ʿAbbāsī was also skilled in line drawing, a form that gained popularity in the Islamic world towards the end of the 16th century. His work significantly influenced subsequent painters of the Eṣfahān school.12

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Eṣfahān school
His painting Two Lovers (Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City) is among the most accomplished works of the Eṣfahān school. Although there is an element of stylization, the exquisiteness and delicacy of the hands, faces, and costumes infuse the painting with an impressionistic quality. The curved,…
Read More
His painting Two Lovers (Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City) is among the most accomplished works of the Eṣfahān school. Although there is an element of stylization, the exquisiteness and delicacy of the hands, faces, and costumes infuse the painting with an impressionistic quality. The curved,…
Read More