A Pair of Ostrich Eggs mounted in a decorative textile net, Ottoman Turkey, 18th Century

comprising a pair of ostrich eggs, each mounted within a textile net with a silk cap at the top and bottom of the egg decorated with metallic threads, attached to a criss-crossing net featuring colourful pompons, with two threads for hanging 

Both in overall good condition, minor chip to one egg, 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."

As symbols of the Sultan's power and dominion, ornamental balls and ostrich eggs were hung from chains and lamps in places expressing his authority, such as in domes, and near the throne and tombs. The decoration of ostrich eggs display a wide range of decoration depending on the fashions of the day. It was widely believed that ostrich eggs removed snakes, insects and beetles.

As signs of fortune, these eggs were hung from chains in dervish-lodges as well as mosques and mausoleums. Ottoman ostrich eggs can be found in state and private collections of Islamic art, including one with silver mounts in the Topkapi Palace Museum (inv. no.8/314 and 8/588), Istanbul. The pair in hand, preserved with their original embroidered covers attached with cross tied fibers, belong to a small group of ostrich eggs which have not been decorated with silver mounts.

A similar ostrich egg, also mounted within a criss-cross net, lies on the floor amongst other decorative objects, in a painting by the famous Austrian Orientalist painter Ludwig Deutsch in his work entitled The Inspection, sold at Sotheby's New York in the 19th Century European Art sale, 4 November 2010.