A Safavid copper candlestick (Mash'Al), Persia, 16th/17th century

of columnar form, with a splayed foot and everted mouth, divided into seven vignettes from top to bottom each incised with inscriptive cartouches surrounded on either side by inverted lobed pendants with symetrical floral motifs and alternating quatrefoil medallions containing figural and animal scenes, bands of trefoil scroll encircling the base  

in overall good condition, minor indent on the bottom of the piece, 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

Round the rim:  A Persian couplet and owner's name as: 'Its owner Aqa Shah Husayn'

In the cartouches around the main body: Persian quatrains and couplets with references to candle, light, burning love and moth.

The narrative quality to the decoration evokes the highly literary culture of the Safavid dynasty.