A carved nephrite jade bowl set with hardstones, Mughal, 18th century

the nephrite carved with foot ring, flared walls and everted rim, the exterior decorated with a register of poppy plants inlaid with gold wire and set with carved orange hardstones

In general good condition, scuffs to surface, some encrustations around gold settings, some minor restoration to some of stone inlay decoration, 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."

This bowl belongs to an exceptional group of inlaid jade objects that date from the early eighteenth century. In describing this group George Michel states "One of the most lavish combinations of materials to be found anywhere in Mughal style is that which juxtaposes semiprecious stones with jade" (Michel 2007, p.49). All of the pieces combine a smooth jade body inlaid with intricately carved hardstones that are enclosed within gold wire borders. This group of jades are not only of the highest quality but also aptly demonstrate the Mughals' acute awareness of naturalistic detail. Included within this group are a pair of huqqa bowls in the British Museum (Skelton 1982, no.366), formerly in the collection of William Beckford who acquired the majority of his Indian works of art from Col. Antoine Polier (see lots 270-2). Other pieces are found in the Victoria & Albert Museum (inv. no. 02593 I.S.), the collection of the Rana of Mewar (Watt 1903, pl.75) and the National Palace Museum, Taipei. The exact place of production has not been determined but Lucknow seems most probable.