A facet-cut glass flask with rare gold cover, collar and chain, Near East or Persia, 9th-10th Century

composed of finely blown glass of cylindrical form, the body and neck tooled and cut with hexagonal facets and slightly flaring rim on a flat foot, with beaten gold cover, collar and chain 

In general good condition, intact, a thick layer of iridescence over most of body, weathering to glass consistent with age and burial, very small chip to shoulder, small cracks in gold stopper also consistent with age, 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."

Remarkably, this beautiful flask still retains its gold cover, chained to a collar on its neck. This lends an element of luxury, as well as an insight into the original use of the flask, which probably contained perfume or cosmetics. A similarly shaped and faceted flask is in the Al-Sabah Collection (inv. no. LNS 407 G) (see Carboni 2001, p.122, no.2.24).