An Agra carpet, North India,

brick red main field with overall pattern of palmettes and arabesques, with a complimentary border with stylised arabesque motifs

Measurements: 368cm across the top, 365cm across the lower edge, 345cm up the left side, and 354cm up the right side; Slightly irregular shape. In reality colours not as strident as in the catalogue photograph, but still bright and cheerful. Pile is generally 3-4mm, especially even overall in the border. There is an area of lower pile towards the centre of the lower third of main field and across the width of the centre, but only within the left side of central lozenge (as rest of lozenge with even 3mm pile), and the pile is down to the knot-heads in the top left of the main field. There is an area of low pile and repair half way up the left side, within the border. Some minor colour run, for example see cream rosette in areas of the border and lower left corner of carpet in catalogue image. There are some small splits (areas of weakness) in the far right border, between the narrow outer borders and the main border (approx. 4cm. long each) for example in the lower right corner section and in the top right corner. Abrash within main field and border. There are later short cotton fringes at both ends, and later blue side cords. There is some very minor old moth damage, lower right corner of border. Would benefit from a professional clean and some attention, and would benefit from having herringbone ribbon attached across both ends to protect edges with fringes. Striking and vibrant carpet of good size, with some lovely drawing of details of herati and boteh motifs.
"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."