A Mughal Pietra Dura Marble Fountain, North West India, 18th/19th century

of square form, the sides carved with upward turning leaves leading to a border of inlaid chevron design, the main surface carved with a large multi-petalled rosette with central bud-form fountain head emanating curling leaves, the spandrels inlaid with interlacing tendrils and lotus blossoms in agate, jasper and other hardstones 

Spink & Son, London 1981

In good overall condition, visible cracks to surface, fully stable, various knocks and abrasions consistent with age, colours bright, 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."

Inlaying architectural elements with coloured and semiprecious stones was typical of the imperial Mughal period, especially after the mid-seventeenth century. Inlaid hardstone work of a similar style can be found in an inlaid marble panel in the al-Sabah Collection, Kuwait, in which the tone of the agate is markedly similar (see E. Atil (ed.), Islamic Art & Patronage, Treasures from Kuwait, New York, 1990, pp.290-2, no.103).