The Dutch Ambassador on his Way to Isfahan

In 1651–1652 the Dutch ambassador Joan Cunaeus and his secretary, Cornelis Speelman, travelled to Isfahan in Persia to stimulate trade in horses and silk. Speelman described the journey, lavish receptions and visits to ancient archeological sites. The two gentlemen are here probably being escorted by the Sultan of Bandar Abbas. Cunaeus wears a silk cloak, a gift from the shah.