A Fatimid Carved Ivory Plaque, Egypt, 12th century

of shallow form carved in relief with a running deer with long curved horns on a ground of spiralling foliage

patination, rubbing and wear with losses to extremities and some repair and consolidation, 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 ivory plaque relates to a number of similar examples dating from the Fatimid period which depict animals, frequently hares or deer.  The present example is likely to have been part of a wooden panel originally, and is stylistically associated with wood carvings of the period.  These typically depict hunting scenes, isolated animals and human figures set against a scolling foliate background.  Comparable pieces can be found in both the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Louvre (see Contadini 1998, pl.50; p.110, pl.34) as well as other French national collections (see L' Islam dans les collections nationales, 2nd May - 22nd August 1977, p.109, pl.190).

This lot is sold with a C14 Measurement Report confirming a date in the 12th century.