## Qajar period The [[Qajar period]] extended from 1796 to 1925 and was founded by Agha Muhammed, the leader of the Qajar Turks who had settled in Iran from Turkestan during the [[Timurid Period]]. Agha Muhammed assumed the title of Shah in 1796. The dynasty came to an end when Reza Shah Pehlevi forced the last Shah to abdicate, effectively removing the Qajars from power. Artistically, the period is noted for its unique contributions to portraiture; portraits of members of the dynasty and other leaders were created in the style of European paintings and portraits. Additionally, lacquer painting became a popular art form during this time, often employed to decorate objects of daily use such as pens, mirrors, and manuscripts.^[*Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, Istanbul*] ![[Qajar painting.jpg|700]] *Qajar painting, late 18th century. Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, Istanbul.*