A FINE OTTOMAN IVORY AND MOTHER-OF-PEARL MOUNTED MIQUELET RIFLE, TURKEY, 18TH CENTURY |

the pattern-welded barrel with gold overlay scrolling motifs at breech and muzzle, full stock with ivory-veneer, set with mother-of-pearl and ivory bands further set with engraved silver-gilt panels and studs with coral mounts to butt

Few minor scuffs, scratches particularly visible to ivory as well as some discoloration, the barrel with oxidisation and rust marks, some small dents to metal plaques on surface as well as some rubbing and oxidisation to these, detachable rod, 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."

Comparable examples of ivory-inlaid Ottoman guns are in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (inv. no. 32.75.270); the Military Museum in Istanbul (Palace of Gold and Light, Washington, 2000, p.160, no.E25); the Victoria & Albert Museum (A. North, An Introduction to Arms and Armour, London, 1985, p.11, fig.3b); the Wallace Collection (G. Laking, Wallace Collection Catalogues: Oriental Arms and Armour, London, 1914, no.2091) and the Nasser D. Khalili Collection, London (Alexander 1992, pp.126-9, nos.72 and 73; Paris 1988, no.42), as well as two privately owned in Denmark (Copenhagen 1982, nos.40 and 41).