A MUGHAL IVORY COMB, NORTH INDIA, 17TH-18TH CENTURY

The fine-toothed comb surmounted by a crescentic openwork panel of lotus and scrolling tendrils, beneath a pair of peacocks flanking a floral finial on a beaded fringe

There is brown discolouration on the comb. Would benefit from a light clean. This work is in good condition, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The openwork panel immediately calls to mind the work on 17th-century stone jali screens and other architectural decoration of this period. In particular, the arch form and the adorsed peacocks is most reminiscent of depictions of the canopy over the peacock throne of Shah Jahan, such as that in a portrait of Shah Alam II of 1797 in the Stuart Cary Welch Collection, sold in these rooms 6th April 2011, lot 150. The peacock was one of the more prominently used emblems of royalty under Mughal patronage.