A Deccani openwork bronze hook, South India, circa 17th century

of 'S' shaped form with dragon-head terminals, decorated with pierced and incised scales, with central bulbous ring incised with scrolls

loss to one of the dragon-head terminals and openwork neck, pitting and patination, 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.
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The stylisation of the dragon-heads relates closely to those found on seventeenth and eighteenth-century Deccani alams (see Zebrowski 1997, p.325, nos. 531 & 532). The form originates from the Timurid period and was derived from a Chinese prototype (Lentz and Lowry 1989, p.223). The Deccani interpretation results in a more serpentine quality.