A Reclining Courtesan, India, probably Deccan, 17th century

Gouache heightened with gold, the figure surrounded by scrolling leafy fronds in faded gold, laid down on an album page with outer margins filled with scrolling vines and flowerheads

In generally good overall condition, a few small flakes, small area of retouching by the foot, colours bright, a few nibbles to outer leaf edges, 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."

Whilst the present work shares the same seductive quality of a Persian painting signed by Mir Afzal Tuni in the British Museum (see Canby 1999, p.137, no.127), the particular palette, facial features and accoutrements suggest an origin further east, in the Deccan. There was a strong influence of Persian style at Golconda in the early to mid-seventeenth century, and one can compare certain aspects of the present figure, such as her long frizzy hair and the folds of her drapery, to a portrait of a courtesan published in Zebrowski 1983, p.182, no.148, subsequently sold in these rooms, 6 April 2011, The Stuart Cary Welch Collection, Part One,  lot 112.