A fine and rare set of four gold-inlaid steel charpois stands, India, circa 1700

comprising four steel charpois stands, of baluster form with a globular head cut with two square openings for bed frame, decorated throughout with inlaid decoration in two colours of gold featuring grape vines and bands with foliate scrolls

In general good condition, some abrasion to surface, including rubbing of gold overlay decoration, one with old piece of wood, possibly from previous bed frame, trapped in 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."

These elegant charpois stands were inlaid with two tones of gold with a pattern of grapes throughout. This motif is unusual on bidriware, and even rarer is the use of gold rather than silver for the inlay. The importance of the materials and execution of design attest to the importance accorded to these stands which would have supported a palaquin or throne, probably in a courtly setting. It is interesting to compare them with those illustrated on a miniature depicting Shah Jahan on the Peacock Throne, attributed to Govardhan, circa 1635, now in the Knellington Collection, Harvard University Art Museums (illustrated in Welch 1985, p.235, no.154).