An illustrated and illuminated leaf from a manuscript of Firdausi’s Shahnameh: Bahram demonstrates his hunting skills to Azadeh the harpist, Persia, Safavid, Shiraz, 16th century

Gouache heightened with gold on paper, depicting a hunting scene within a rocky landscape, with 4 columns of text written in nasta'liq script in black ink within 4 columns separated by double intercolumnar rules on gold sprinkled paper, margins ruled in colours and gold, the reverse with 25 lines of text in 4 columns on gold sprinkled paper

In good overall condition, minor flaking to paint, notably on white floral branches of tree to top left-hand corner, some rubbing to surface, notably on slightly visible straight vertical band through painting, two fine crease marks to right-hand bottom corner, some crease lines to reverse with minor blue ink 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."