A Safavid Brocade prayer panel

woven with a large central cypress tree in green and gold, within a mihrab against a ground of small repeat pattern of golden floral sprig motif on a cerise ground, the top corner spandrels of aquamarine, all within six further narrow outer borders, the centre of the top border woven with an inscription from the Qur'an, chapter XLVIII (al-Fath), verse 1, against silvered ground entablature 

There are some losses to the brocade, as expected of this technique. This is especially true to an old fold line, up the centre of the panel through the cypress tree and another vertical line of wear within the left side of the panel, and clearly visible in the photograph, extending from the bottom to top of the panel. Another similar vertical line of wear is visible from the lower edge vertically up towards the right hand side of the tree base. The panel is edged and partially lined with striped woven material, othewise the lining is a copper coloured silk panel. It would benefit from some professional attention. Finely woven and striking panel. EMBARGO ON IMPORTATION OF PERSIAN/IRANIAN WORKS OF ART TO THE USA. Due to recent changes in the U.S. law, carpets and rugs of Iranian/Persian origin can no longer be imported into the U.S. Please check with the sale administrator if you are uncertain as to whether a lot is subject to these or any other restrictions or if you need assistance with such enquiries.
"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."

EMBARGO ON IMPORTATION OF PERSIAN/IRANIAN WORKS OF ART TO THE USA.
Due to recent changes in the U.S. law, carpets and rugs of Iranian/Persian origin can no longer be imported into the U.S. 

Please check with the sale administrator if you are uncertain as to whether a lot is subject to these or any other restrictions or if you need assistance with such enquiries.