A Rare Woman's Silk Cap With Pearls (Bokhta), Mongol, Central Asia, 13th Century

cut in triangular form, consisting of two pieces of cloth attached together at the back through silk clasps, the front featuring a vertical row of six flowerhead embroideries, each with a small pearl in centre, two long ribbons to top and along each loosely hanging ear coverings, with evidence that the interior once contained leather

In overall fairly good condition with some ware consistent with age, discoloration and some loose threads, 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 female bokhta was possibly the most distinctive item of clothing in the Mongolian woman's wardrobe, and a key indicator of social status and wealth in the nomadic world. Originally, the present example would have comprised a second, conical-shaped piece of material which would tower up through the space in the top of the lower portion. A comparable example including the conical attachment can be found in the Museum of Islamic Art, Doha (published in the exhibition catalogue Unseen Treasures, Doha, 2010, pp.64-65).