A Double-Page Miniature of Princes Hunting on Horseback, Persia, Safavid, Qazwin, late 16th century

Gouache heightened with gold on paper, mounted as a double-page frontispiece with illumination in colours and gold, comprising scrolling polychrome flowers and split-palmettes on blue and gold grounds

In generally good overall condition, right section with some creases, miniatures retouched at edges. Right hand folio: Illustrated area with a pronounced fold at center left, with a parallel line of creasing to its left, overall surface abrasion, slight flaking to the face of rider on brown horse, bleeding on yellow robe of rider on blue horse, minor tear at bottom right and slight cleavage at bottom and left of picture plain, taped on verso to stabilize, decorative border in overall good condition, decorative inscription on verso; Left folio: overall surface abrasion with minor areas with loss to pigments, two minor cracks in upper left corner of illustration area. minor spots demonstrating cleavage and slight buckling in center area. rubbing to decorative margins at extreme vertical left, repasted on paper backing, 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."