A princess with attendants on a terrace, India, Deccan, mid-18th century, with calligraphy by 'Abd al-Rahim al-Haravi, dated 1004 AH/1595 AD

gouache with gold on paper, mounted on an album page with cream borders decorated with gold floral scrolls, reverse with a panel of calligraphy by 'Abd al-Rahim al-Haravi in nasta'liq script in black in on illuminated marbled paper, calligraphy dated 1004 AH/1595 AD

In generally good condition, very minor areas of flaking to the paint with associated retouching in some cases, notably on the garden, most noticeable near the hand of the young woman presenting a necklace to the seated princess, and some flaking of white paint in background, there is some light buckling to the right-hand side where the page was probably pasted down into the album, the borders with some minor rubbing and associated losses, the reverse calligraphic page composed of cut-outs from a calligraphic album pasted down, with some rubbing to surface and edges to one or two very slightly loose, external edges of album page with old ducking tape from whence it was previously mounted - overall colours strong. 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."

The calligrapher 'Abd al-Rahim al-Haravi was one of the most celebrated of Emperor Akbar's royal calligraphers. He was given the title Anbarin Qalam ('Amber Pen'). The calligraphy panel on the verso is notable not only for the fine nasta'liq script by the royal calligrapher, but also for the marbled paper on which it is written.