A large boxed collection of Ottoman sherbet spoons from the Güvençer factory, Turkey, 19th century

a collection of 190 Ottoman sherbet spoons, each of characteristic form with a long curved or tapering handle and a deep oval or circular bowl, some carved out of one block of material, others in two or more pieces with the bowl attached to the handle by small metal pins, the handles predominantly in ivory, marine ivory or bone, some carved with faceted pinecone patterns, the majority with bud-shaped finials with a number of examples surmounted by straight coral or coral-branch tips, other handles in wood or horn, with mother-of-pearl, ivory, marine ivory and bone insets and tips, some with pineapple or stylised vegetal finials, the bowls predominantly in tortoiseshell and ivory, others in wood or finely carved coconut shell, a number of examples affixed with collector's label, some packed in their original factory wrapping, all enclosed in three purpose-built wooden cases

In good overall condition. Some with very minor nicks, especially to the bowl. Light scratches throughout, particularly to the coconut, horn, tortoiseshell and wooden parts. Some mother-of-pearl and coral parts loose. One coral finial separated from its original spoon. The cases with damage througout. Spoons in packs, with paper, cotton or cloth protection, some loose. 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."

Comparable collections, though smaller in size, were sold in these rooms, 8 October 2008, lot 269, and 6 October 2010, lot 326.