Lot 156
  • 156

AN ENGRAVED TINNED-COPPER BOTTLE, PERSIA OR INDIA, CIRCA 16TH/17TH CENTURY |

Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • 43cm. height
of baluster form with bulbous body on small foot and slender neck with ridge, engraved throughout with alternating cartouches containing calligraphy and split-palmettes on an etched ground, the upper section with horizontal incised lines above decoration

Condition

The bottle cast in sections, some small dents and knocks throughout, rubbing to surface revealing copper, some black stains, two old intentional holes near rim with some later breaks near edges, one small crack on bulbous body, could benefit from a professional clean (please consult a specialised restorer for further advice), 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

Repetition of verses from a ghazal of Sa’ib-e Tabrizi (d.1676). Born in Tabriz and educated in Isfahan, Tabrizi travelled in India, where he was received by Shah Jahan. He returned to Isfahan where Shah ‘Abbas II titled him King of Poets (malik al-shu’ara’). It is possible that this bottle was produced in either Persia or India as both places would have been familiar with Tabrizi's works.