A Fine and Rare Bidriware Huqqa Base, Deccan, India, 17th Century

of globular form with a short cylindrical neck gently broadening at the mouth, supported on bulbous ring base, chiselled, chased, gilded and inlaid with silver, the body with a register of seven ovals enclosing flowering plants reserved on a silver wave motif ground, the top of the shoulder with a band of chased flower scrolls, the mouth with further floral ovals and inlaid wave motif, the base with diamond and petal bands

In good overall condition, minor loss to silver inlay, base possibly later, 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."

This unusual huqqa base presents a beautiful example of the ganja-jumna technique. Referring to the contrasting colours of the two great Indian rivers, the Ganga and the Jumna (Jamuna), this technique employs both silver inlay and gilt in the decoration providing a rich colour spectrum to the piece. The bulbous body of this huqqa base is decorated with a wave pattern representing water which can be found on other examples of huqqa bases (Stronge 1985, p.49, no.10). The brass is used on the floral decoration inside the medallions on the body, differentiating them from the background and giving them a rich appearance.

A related hookah base was sold in these rooms on 25 May 2005, lot 100.