A MUGHAL GEM-SET AND ENAMELLED GOLD ARCHER'S RING, NORTH INDIA, CIRCA 17TH CENTURY |

enamelled with a green ground and set with diamonds, pink gemstones and turquoise in the kundan technique as a flowerhead with foliate stems, the interior with a white enamel ground and red, blue and green enamelled floral blossoms

Generally good condition, some minor sections of green enamel missing and associated encrustation and erosion, one or two of pink gemstones probably later replacements, inside of ring with strong bright colours, 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."

Archers' rings with an asymmetrical construction, such as the present example, were designed to enable the archer to release the arrow with precision and in so doing, protect the inner side of the thumb against the bow string. Appreciated for their practical use as well as their craftsmanship, they were presented as tokens of appreciation by the emperors and would have only been worn by his innermost circle. A similar ring is in the Al-Sabah Collection, Kuwait, inv. no.2216 J (see Keene 2001, p.63, no.6.3).