An Ottoman mother-of-pearl and tortoiseshell-inlaid Qur'an stand, Turkey, late 18th century

of typical folding form with two parts hinged together with arched lower sections, inlaid with mother-of-pearl geometric designs and tortoiseshell floral sprays with split-leaf palmettes on both upper and lower sections, enclosed by lozenge and tortoiseshell borders, with ivory edging

In good overall condition, minor losses to wood and inlay, some splitting, 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."

This elegant bookstand is a good example of Ottoman inlay work from the late eighteenth century.  Stands such as this were designed to hold a large open Qur'an and could be found in both mosques and tombs.