A silver-inlaid bidriware huqqa base and a spice box, probably Bidar, India, 19th century

the huqqa-base of bell-shape form with flanged collar and flaring mouth, silver-inlaid stylised petalled blossoms, the spice box with flat tray, everted edges and domed cover, silver-inlaid with floral garlands

The huqqa base with some losses to petals and minor patches of abrasion throughout, discoloration to silver due to oxidisation, the spice-box in good overall condition with sections of external edge of tray broken, hairline scratches to surface, the finial of lid slightly bent, minor oxidisation, 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 huqqa base features stylised foliate blossoms comprising individual petals each with perforated dotted lines created using the 'aftabi' technique which can be closely paralleled with another bell-shaped huqqa base in the Krishna Riboud collection, Paris, and a huqqa base in the British Museum London, inv. no. 1934-5-14-6 (see M. Zebrowski, Gold, Silver & Bronze from Mughal India, Alexandria Press, London, pp.236-7, nos. 395 and 397).