A fine and rare set of Ottoman gold and pearl inlaid bridle ornaments, Turkey, 16th century

composed of twelve hammered and punched bridle ornaments consisting of three lobed plaques connected with interlocking hinges, decorated with an incised foliate designs and pearls, attached to a felt mount, also featuring eleven hanging beads of lobed hexagonal form, incised with floral scrolls

In overall good condition, some minor knocks 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."

These rare bridle ornaments were probably part of a horse's reins or headstall such as those from the Dresden Rüstkammer, and now housed in the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen, Dresden (inv. no. L152) and illustrated in Schuckelt, H., Die Türckische Cammer, Dresden, 2010, pp.244, 282 and 294. Related ornaments worn on the saddle-cloth are illustrated in Die Karlsruher Türkenbeute, Munich, 1991, pp.103-108. 

Another telling comparison can be drawn with the Süleyman-period jewelled ivory belts in the Topkapi Sarayi Museum in Istanbul (inv. no. 2/539 and no. 2/575), illustrated in Atil 1987, pp.141-142. These are also composed of plaques with a similar design of fine scrolling floral stems forming a harmonious geometric pattern.