A rare Fatimid turquoise-set Gold Brooch in the form of a fish, Syria or Egypt, 10th century

of small crescent shape mounted on larger cresent or elongated leaf shape, composed of gold, decorated in filigree and granulated wire, set with three turquoise teardrop stones

overall good condition, oxidation of the gold on one tip of the larger crescent's hemisphere, some loss of the gold sheet of reverse of brooch, 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 talismanic symbolism of the fish was passed onto the seventh- and eighth-century Islamic world from late Antiquity... . Other than glass containers, the few fish-shaped objects that survive belonged to necklaces or belts - that is they were designed to be worn on the body and were thus imbued with a powerful auspicious meaning" (Carboni 2001, p.109).