French

• circular nickel lever movement, 15 jewels • tinted mother-of-pearl dial, the foreground depicting an courtly scene of a female figure with a cup of wine and a crowned male figure, the background with two gazelles within a landscape, diamond-set Roman numerals and hands, work attributed to Vladimir Makovsky • the case composed of frosted glass, the cut corners heightened by diamond, feldspar and enamel-set fittings, upon stepped lapis lazuli feet, all upon a base composed of onyx and frosted rock crystal • case signed L. R. 

The present lot contains endangered species which is subject to United States Fish & Wildlife Services restrictions upon international export. The time frame for shipment outside the United States is approximately 3-5 weeks. Movement running at time of cataloging, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Case is in excellent condition overall. Base with very small chips to the corners of the rock crystal, light scratches and slight discoloration to the top of the onyx to the base. Emerald to the left on the base is chipped, emeralds to the top of the case to the front are chipped at the tips, the back right emerald is complete chipped off. Evidence of old repair to the lapis lazuli. Bezel is slightly oxidized, further oxidation to the decorative elements to the top of the case. Case back with patina and light scratches. The top of the case with an extremely light scratch. Dial in very good condition with all elements present and light spotting.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. 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. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.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."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

The scene in this example is reminiscent of a 16th/17th century Persian painting from the Safavid period. It is inspired by traditional Persian epic poetry, a genre exemplified by celebrated writers such as Rumi, Saadi and Hafez. The sharing of wine between lovers is a prominent motif in Persian paintings and miniatures. The decorative background features two gazelles, which represent the theme of love and is reproduced on various media from the period. It evokes the romantic mood of poetry and mirrors the blossoming love between the pair in the foreground.

The exquisitely rendered dial of the present lot recalls the work of Vladimir Makovsky, an artist whose works made frequent reference to the exotic lands after a lifetime of travels. His creations can be found on pieces made for Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier, among others.