A pair of Fatimid basket-style gold earrings, Egypt or Syria, 10th-12th century

composed of sheet gold with five dome-shapes decorated with filigree and granulation, hinged suspension loop

"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 related examples and a discussion on 'basket-type' earrings, whose origin is linked to the Byzantine Empire, see Jewellery and Goldsmithing in the Islamic World: International Symposium, the Israel Museum, Jerusalem, 1987, pp.24-26.