A rare Italian micromosaic panel with the insignia (tughra) of Abdülhamid II (reigned 1876-1909), Roman 19th century

of oval form with an Islamic inscription above a ribbon-tied berried laurel spray, on a black marble ground 

By repute a diplomatic gift from the Pope to Sultan Abdülhamid II of Turkey.

Colour slightly darker overall and much more attractive than in the photograph. Some old very minor restorations to the micromosaic but this has been very well executed. Some miniscule chips around the border as visible from the photograph. The piece has a metal bracket on the back which is not visible from the photograph but this can be removed. In overall good condition.
"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."

This micromosaic was made in Rome and obviously intended as a diplomatic gift to Abdülhamid II (reigned 1876-1909), the Sultan of Turkey. The inscription also reads` Abdulhamid, son of Abdulmejid is forever victorious'.  

Abdülhamid II (1842-1918), the Ottoman sultan from 1876 to 1909, was the son of Sultan Abdülmejid I. He promulgated the first Ottoman constitution in 1876, primarily to ward off foreign intervention. Discontent with Abdülhamid's despotic rule and resentment against European intervention in the Balkans however, led to the military revolution of the 1908. After a short-lived reactionary uprising (April 1909), Abdülhamid was deposed, and his brother was proclaimed sultan as Mehmed V.