A silk embroidered quilt, central asia or north india

composed of a layer of cotton wadding between open weave cotton layers, faced with silk and embroidered in shaded satin stitch in polychrome silk, the embroidery stitched through the wadding and backing, all backed with cotton sateen, edges bound in red silk

Colours more vibrant and more attractive in reality. Reds are brighter and lighter in reality and the salmon colour in the illustration is in fact a pale pink. Creamier coloured silk ground, and therefore lighter appearance overall. Facing cream silk is distressed overall (multiple breakes, splits and holes - with wadding visible in areas). Central area especially in need of attention, where folding in both directions has resulted in several losses to silk. Generally dirty, and with some stains in areas, for example top left of centre of photograph in catalogue (between rounded floral and petalled floral motif) as darker area, and bottom right, to area of narrow border, there is pink staining to the cream ground. Linen backing stained. Edges are frayed and worn, and need stabilising. In need of some attention. Bold design, striking appearance with some charming detailing to embroidered foliate motifs.
"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 piece is unusual both for its construction and for the design: the level of detail seen in the flowers and foliage and the density of the pattern together with the use of some almost geometric details reminiscent of the embroidery found on Turkmen Chirpy (such as the 'dot and dash' patterning of some of the stems) suggest a possible Turkman origin. The minor borders suggest a European influence.