An intact Mamluk enamelled glass flask, Syria, 13th/14th century

the body free-blown, of globular form with a tall, bulbous neck, two applied handles to each side composed of trailed glass, decorated with red, yellow, green, white and blue enamelling with a band of leafy tendrils to body and neck, scroll motifs in between

In good condition, intact, some hairline cracks to surface, rubbing and subsequent loss of enamel on some areas, some iridescence and dirt stains, 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."

This beautiful flask is delicately modelled with sinuous lines. The colourful enamelling that remains on its surface attests to the polychromatic palette employed by Mamluk glass makers, even on smaller objects that were probably for daily use. Each motif is rendered in a different colour and united by the fine red lines that delineate the original drawing. This flask shares a similar shape to two perfume sprinklers in the Al-Sabah Collection, Inv. no. LNS 2 G and LNS 92 KG (Carboni 2001, pp.350-351, nos.95a and 95b).