A cast bronze brazier, Deccan, India, circa 18th century

of hexagonal form, each side decorated with cut openwork comprised of arabesques and divergent scrolls with openwork cresting above and below, supported on legs of bowed form and crowned by ribbed cone and disc-shaped finials, two foliate handles to sides

Cracks to the edges, and some wearing to the inside, 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."

The polygonal form with openwork sides has its origins in the Seljuk period, see Pope, A.U., A Survey of Persian Art, 1939, vol.6, fig.1379B, and von Folsach 2001, p.313, no.500.

The attribution to the Deccan is based on marked similarities with cut arabesque openwork on bronze and iron objects from Bijapur and Ahmadnagar (see Welch 1985, figs.189 and 192, pp.281-285 and 289). Welch states that the tracery was "made by pouring melted iron [or bronze] into a mold of stone or sand, after which it was refined with files and abrasives" (op.cit.p.289).