A Fine Safavid Gold-inlaid Steel Saddle-Axehead, Signed by the maker Lutf'Ali, Persia, Dated 1142 AH/ 1729 AD

the steel head decorated with cartouches of split-leaf arabesques set in reserve against an engraved background of vegetal patterns, remnants of gold-inlay throughout, dated with an inscription on the top part of the blade 

In overall good condition, with slight surface patination consistent with age, and minor crack to the top of the head, 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."

inscriptions

'amal-e lutf'ali zar/nishan-kar 1142

'Work of Lutf'ali, the gold inlayer, 1142 AH/1729-30 AD'

No work is recorded with such a signature.  However, there is a Lutf'ali, whose recorded work is dated between 1148 AH/1735-6 AD and 1153 AH/1739-40 AD and could be the same as the above, even though none of his recorded works are as fine as this axe.

For Lutf'ali and his work, see, James Allan & Brian Gilmour, Persian Steel, The Tanavoli Collection, Oxford, 2000, pp.109-110, 135, 146 and 222.