A rare Mamluk wooden panel, Egypt, 14th-15th century

the main field comprised of multiple interlocking polygonal panels slotted into a wooden lattice frame with a central stellar medallion with paired half-medallions above and below, set between plain borders with two small rectangular panels above and below carved in low-relief with interlacing geometrical forms

some minor losses, overall 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."

Mamluk woodworkers excelled in the art of inlaying wood and other precious materials into furniture and fittings destined for buildings commissioned by sultans and emirs. Geometrical designs were favoured, their intricate compositions built up using individually carved pieces assembled into complex patterns, a technique that requires great patience and skill as well as knowledge of mathematics.

Panels such as this are scarce on the market. Most are in museums or in situ in the buildings for which they were designed; it is rare to find one still in private hands. This particular example may have come from a minbar or a door or window casement.