Naser al-Din Shah Qajar, the ruler of Persia from 1848 to 1896, is renowned for many aspects of his long reign, but his fascination with photography stands out as a particularly unique facet of his personality. A pioneering monarch in the use of photography, he not only embraced this new technology but also used it as a means of self-expression and documentation. Among his various endeavors with the camera, his fondness for photographing the women of his court remains one of the most intriguing. The Soltanabad Mansion, with its iconic Marble Staircase, became the centerpiece of these artistic endeavors and offered a glimpse into the private world of the royal harem.
The Soltanabad Mansion: A Royal Summer Retreat
The Soltanabad Mansion, constructed around 1265 AH (1848 CE), was one of Naser al-Din Shah’s preferred summer residences. Located amidst lush gardens and designed in a blend of traditional Persian and modern architectural styles, it was an epitome of elegance and grandeur. The mansion served as a retreat for the Shah and his court, providing a serene escape from the bustling capital of Tehran.