AN EMBELLISHED 'MUGHAL' AGATE SNUFF BOTTLE QING DYNASTY, 19TH CENTURY

of rectangular form with rounded angles, adorned with inlaid ruby-red and crystal gems and outlined in gilt wires with a panel of florets and foliage on one side, the reverse with a dark brown patch in the stone, enclosed within foliate borders, the translucent stone of beige and grey tones highlighted with brown inclusions, the stopper with a spherical knop similarly embellished

Acquired in Paris between the 1970s and the early 90s.

There is typical tarnishing (esp. the gilt wires on one side). A few gems have possibly been replaced, and a section of inlaid wire on the knop is missing. There is a 0.3 cm flake to the mouth of the bottle. Apart from some minor scratches, the overall condition is quite good. The unevenness of the surface near the dark patch is probably original. The stopper, possibly a later replacement married to the bottle when the embellishment was added, has a tiny bruise and associate nick (0.1 cm).
"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."