A group of two magic bowls and a luni-solar volvelle, Syria and Persia, 18th-19th century

the two bowls of shallow rounded form supported on a narrow circular foot, both with everted rim, the larger of the two with a small domed boss, the other with a flattened boss, the interior and exterior of both engraved with roundels and cartouches filled with calligraphy and talismanic diagrams,the volvelle is composed of three rotating circular discs, the smallest disc with arrow-shaped pointer and a circular aperture, the thirty days of the lunar month engraved on the second disc, the zodiacal scale engraved on the third largest disc

in overall good conditon, 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."

The volvelle is a rare instrument of which only a small number are recorded. The arrow-shaped pointer and circular aperture on the first disc allow the phase of the Moon to be seen. The pointer may be set against the second disc to indicate the age of the Moon which in turn may be set against the zodiacal scale engraved on the third disc which has the named signs divided in numbered groups of five, thus locating the user in the solar year.