Sixteen ivory and bone chess and other gaming pieces, Persia or Egypt, 9th-11th century

of differing forms, cylindrical, waisted, bulbous and domical, variously decorated with incised bands and dots and circles

The chess pieces each in fair condition, three with cracks and associated restoration, some with encrustations and ware to surface consistent with age and use, 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."

For a discussion of chess and other medieval gaming pieces found at Fustat, see A. Contadini, 'Islamic Ivory Chess Pieces, Draughtsmen & Dice', in James Allan (ed.), Islamic Art in the Ashmolean Museum, vol.X, Part One, Oxford, 1995, pp.111-154. See also, C. Wilkinson, Chess: East and West, Past and Present, a selection from the Gustav A. Pfeiffer Collection, New York, 1968.