A large and rare Deccani copper alloy spouted vessel with cast zoomorphic handle, India, circa 18th century

of pyriform shape with a pointed spout curving alongside the body, the handle cast with two stylised bird heads at each end and engraved with facial features and leafy scrolls, with a hinged domed cover and pine finial, the body engraved throughout with interconnected stems featuring flowerheads, bands of scrolling split-palmettes, and two rows of calligraphic inscriptions

In general good condition, small knock along one part of body, some rubbing to minor parts of surface, 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."

inscriptions

Around the neck:

Two couplets in Persian. Although they are not included in the accepted version of Nizami's Sharaf-nama, they may be recorded as his in some manuscripts.

Around the belly:

Four couplets from the Sharaf-nama of Nizami, ending with 943 [If a date, it would be 1536-7, which is unlikely to be the date of this piece].