Persian Gulf, Pearl Fishing

FIRST EDITION, 4 volumes (including atlas volume of maps), original cloth

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"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."

An important collection of reports on pearl fishing in the Persian Gulf before the oil era, compiled from British government records. The records deal primarily with the Arab side of the Persian Gulf, including material relating to Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the Trucial States and Muscat, with some references to Saudi Arabia.

The material – virtually all now published for the first time – provides information on the economic, geographic, political and social aspects of the pearl trade as well as details on technical and operating aspects, including the terms and conditions of divers and their nawkhudas (pearling captains).

The collection focuses on the hundred years between the mid-19th and mid-20th centuries, when the traditional pearling industry reached its peak and began its abrupt decline. The documents show clearly the impact of the 20th century on pearling: the more lucrative arms traffic, the introduction of cultured pearls, the threat of mechanised diving, a Government of India ban on pearl imports in 1947–48, and, from the late 1940s, alternative work in the oil industry.

The main pearl banks were mapped in two sections, from Kuwait to Ras Tannura, and from Ras Tannura to Dubai. There were smaller banks off Muscat. The season ran from April to September. The trade also involved mother-of-pearl and sponge fishery, which are referred to in this study.