A painted lacquer powder horn, India, 18th century

the wood body of nautilus shell form, lacquered and painted with gilt and polychrome large lotus filled buta bordered by scrolling poppy and lotus flower bands, the top with a radiating arcade of flowering plants surmounted by a turned ivory stopper, two iron suspension loops to side

areas of loss to painted decoration particularly to outside edge revealing the wood body below, splitting to ivory stopper consistent with age, 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 distinctive buta motif relates closely to the designs seen on Kashmir shawls, see Irwin J., The Kashmir Shawl, Victoria and Albert Museum, 1973.