A Fatimid Marble Jar-stand (kilga), Egypt, 12th century

of hollowed-out cylindrical form, with a rectangular trough with carved grooves to the inside, two protruding elements to either side, standing on four short feet

some small chips to rim of the cylindrical element, rubbing and abrasions to the surface associated with age, chips to the base of the back left foot and front two feet, 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."

Stands such as this were intended as supports for large unglazed terracotta water jars.  The porous clay allowed water to seep slowly through the ovoid bottom of the jar, cooling and being filtered as it went, and would collect in the basin beneath.  Another similar jar-stand was exhibited in 'Fatimid Treasures from Cairo' at the Institut du Monde Arabe, Paris (Paris 1998, p.180, no.126).  A further example was sold in these rooms 3 May 2001, lot 93.  For a full discussion of Marble Jar-stands from Egypt see Elfriede R. Knauer's article in the Metropolitan Museum Journal, New York, vol.14, 1979, pp.67-101.