Graceful Portrait of Moraven-es-Sultana, 1910

This historical photograph features Mme. Florence Ali Kuli Khan, also known as Moraven-es-Sultana, seated gracefully for the camera. Captured on October 1, 1910, by the Bain News Service, the image reflects a moment in time that highlights the unique intersection of cultures and identities during the early 20th century. As the wife of the Persian envoy to the United States, Ali Kuli Khan played an important role in promoting cultural exchange between Persia (now Iran) and the West.

The photograph not only showcases Mme. Ali Kuli Khans elegance and composure but also serves as a reminder of the diplomatic relations of the era. Her position as a representative of Persian society in the U.S. underscores the complexities of international relationships during this period. This image allows us to explore how individuals like Mme. Ali Kuli Khan shaped perceptions of their cultures abroad, marking an essential chapter in the narrative of global diplomacy and cultural interaction.