A curtain for the tomb of the prophet (Hujrat al-qubr al-nabwi al-sharif) in Medina with the Tughra of Sultan Mahmud (1223-55/1808-39), dated 1229 (1813-14)

of rectangular form, the black silk ground applied with red, green and salmon pink panels, embroidered with silver and silver-gilt metal threads, with a central calligraphic mosque lamp emitting rays above a fan-formed cartouche filled with inscriptions set in a lobed arch flanked by columns, the spandrels of the arch filled with two calligraphic roundels on a ground of scrolling foliage, the centre with a row of six coloured-ground calligraphic roundels, with a pair of large foliate scrolls flanking a further small calligraphic roundel, three rows of inscriptions below set between columns, the imperial tughra at the foot framed in a foliate cartouche tied with ribbons, framed within a border of palmettes alternating with stylised rosettes, the composition surmounted by a row of eight coloured-ground calligraphic cartouches

wear and tear to the silk ground, metal threads tarnished, 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."

inscriptions
In the top 8 roundels, repetition of: allahu rabbi allahu hasabi
'God is my Lord, God suffices me'

In the two roundels: the shahada

In the lamp: Qur'an, surah al-Nur (XXIV), parts of 35

In the 6 roundels:
The names of the four Orthodox Caliphs, Hasan and Husayn

Underneath the above roundels, the date: 'The year 1229 (1813-14)'

In the cartouche: The Basmala

In the panel: Qu'ran, surah al-Baqara (II), 255
Tughra of Sultan Mahmud (r. 1223-55/ 1808-39)