FINE ISLAMIC ART HAMMER AUCTION APRIL 2026 | Apr 21, 2026
Page 3 of catalogue
Lot 245
SOLOMON RECEIVES A MESSAGE FROM THE HOOPOE, MUGHAL INDIA, 18TH CENTURY SOLOMON RECEIVES A MESSAGE FROM THE HOOPOE, MUGHAL INDIA, 18TH CENTURY

Lot 245 SOLOMON RECEIVES A MESSAGE FROM THE HOOPOE, MUGHAL INDIA, 18TH CENTURY

Reference: ART3008159

Opaque pigments heightened with gold on paper, set within polychrome and gilt borders, mounted on card. The painting illustrates an episode from the legendary romance of King Solomon (Prophet Sulayman) and the Queen of Sheba (Bilqis). According to Islamic and Persian literary tradition, the hoopoe bird (hudhud) acts as a divine messenger between them. Here, the hoopoe delivers its message to Solomon, confirming the Queen’s existence and kingdom. Solomon is shown seated centrally on an elaborate, jewel-like throne. His head is encircled by a radiant gold halo, signifying his prophetic status. The throne is borne aloft by demons (jinn)—a reference to Solomon’s God-given power to command supernatural beings. Surrounding him are numerous winged angels, attendants, and birds in dynamic flight, filling the upper register of the composition.
43,5 by 29 cm.

Pre-bidding for live auction ends:

Current bid

-
Reserve met
No
Estimate
€2,000 - €3,000
Minimum bid
€1,500
Lot status
opened
Your bid number
Request bid number

Place New Bid

Your current maximum bid: no maximum bid set

Place maximum bid. The next minimum bid step is €1,500.00.

Bid overview

  • Be the first to bid!

View bid steps

Phone Bid

Please enter your phone number below. Phone bids can be registered until

Phone bid configured. You will be called during the live auction on:
-
Contact the auction house if you would like to make any changes.
No phone bid configured
Add phone bid

By adding a bid, you agree to our General Agreement and Privacy Policy

Download our Mobile Auction App