- 87
An Anglo-Indian miniature ivory inlaid ebony desk cabinet, Monghyr, mid-19th century
Estimate
800 - 1,200 GBP
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Description
- ivory, ebony
- 50cm high, 33.5cm wide, 17cm. deep; 1ft 7½in high, 1ft 1¼in wide, 6½in deep
in the form of a miniature bureau cabinet surmounted by a pen rack, the interior fitted with pigeonholes, a detachable velvet inlaid writing surface and small rosewood lined drawers
Condition
Overall in reasonable restored condition. There are age cracks to the the doors. The ivory inlay is very intricate with small areas of restoration and minor loses. the pen holder with some repaired breaks. The pigeon holes of the interior with repaired breaks and loses to the lower section. The door hinges now with some later screws. Formerly on bun feet. Generally with minor old marks and scratches consistent with age and use. A charming piece.
"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."
"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
Related literature
Amin Jaffer, Furniture from British India and Ceylon, London, 2001, p. 236, fig. 77
Amin Jaffer, Furniture from British India and Ceylon, London, 2001, p. 236, fig. 77
The emergence of this type of intricate ivory inlay – not found elsewhere in Bengal – dates from the 1760s when Monghyr craftsmen began using the technique to decorate arms. Monghyr wares soon became renowned among European travellers and examples of their work were included in the Great Exhibition of 1851. For a very similar cabinet, almost certainly from the same workshop, see that in collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London (acc. no. 426-1882).