An Important curtain from the tomb of the Prophet (Hujrat al-qabr al-nabawi al-sharif) in Medina, Ottoman, period of Sultan Mahmud II (r.1808-39)

of rectangular form, the black silk ground with applied red silk panels, embroidered with silver and silver-gilt metal threads with cartouches and roundels filled with inscriptions framed by wreaths, garlands, acanthus scrolls and ribbons

small tears to coloured silk ground, overall in very good condition, old rebacking, 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

In the border cartouches: Qur'an, surah al-Fath (XLVIII), 8-13

In the top margin: Qur'an, sura Al-'Umaran (III), 132.

In the roundel below it: A saying of the Prophet.

In the six roundels: The names of Abu Bakr, 'Umar, 'Uthman, 'Ali, Hasan and Husayn.

In curved cartouche and the one below it: Qur'an, sura al-Ahzab (XXXIII), 45-7.

The tughra of Sultan Mahmud II (1223-55/1808-39).