Lot 196
  • 196

A brass openwork penbox, Persia or Deccan, dated 1160 AH/1747-48 AD

Estimate
12,000 - 18,000 GBP
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Description

  • brass
elongated oblong form, domed lid in two parts, hinged, openwork calligraphy and border of quadrupeds amidst scrolling foliage, opening to reveal a section with inkwell, further compartments, part of lid with for use as container

Condition

One hinge broken so that one section of lid loose, other hinges fragile, further oxidisation particularly visible to interior, some cracks in inkwell and missing original small lid, some encrustation throughout, notably in crevices, to open, one must press the small button in front of penbox, 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."

Catalogue Note

inscriptions

On lid, in Persian, in nasta’liq:

'The person who became fortunate from eternity
Who chose seeking knowledge,
Seeking knowledge became an obligation for you'

Around the body, in Persian, in thuluth

'O you! who benefited from knowledge
And from the grace of your deeds, became beneficent
And in patronage/security of deeds you [became] like ….
It is from this very [deed] that you managed [your affair]'

Followed by a repeat of the first couplet.

On the base: 'the year 1160 AH (1747-8 AD)'