- 138
A Mughal gem-set rock crystal cup, India, circa 18th century
Estimate
30,000 - 50,000 GBP
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Description
- Rock crystal, gem set
the rock crystal carved in the form of a cup, set with gold floral tendrils highlighted with rubies, emerald and diamonds, in custom velvet box
Provenance
Formerly in a European Noble Collection, acquired between 1946 and 1950
Condition
In overall good condition, one small inclusion to rock crystal and one small chip near one of gilt tendrils, some oxidisation, one stone missing, 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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
Rock crystal objects inlaid with precious stones and of courtly quality from the Mughal period are extremely rare. The present example stands out in the intricacy of its decoration, achieved on a block of rock crystal, an incredibly hard stone to carve, representing a feat of craftsmanship as well as beauty.
Each gold wire outline appears to have been set in place with a special adhesive within holes minutely drilled at forty-five degree angles. The gemstones would then have been set into the wire, forming a lush and abundant design of floral stems.
A number of comparable examples of rock crystal objects set with colourful gemstones, including dagger hilts, a box and cups of smaller dimensions are in the Al-Sabah Collection (see Keene 2001, pp.30-35).
Each gold wire outline appears to have been set in place with a special adhesive within holes minutely drilled at forty-five degree angles. The gemstones would then have been set into the wire, forming a lush and abundant design of floral stems.
A number of comparable examples of rock crystal objects set with colourful gemstones, including dagger hilts, a box and cups of smaller dimensions are in the Al-Sabah Collection (see Keene 2001, pp.30-35).