Lot 20
  • 20

An Ottoman silk and metal-thread curtain, with the tughra of Sultan Selim III (r. A.H. 1203-22/A.D. 1789-1807), A.H. 1209/A.D. 1794-5

Estimate
40,000 - 60,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

of rectangular form, the black silk ground applied with red and pistachio silk cartouches and roundels embroidered with silver and silver-gilt metal threads, with a central stylised depiction of a mihrab enclosing a mosque lamp and the tughra of Sultan Selim III, framed by panels of calligraphic roundels and cartouches, the arcade with alternating palmettes

Condition

Very minor fraying throughout. Three very small dots to the right corner. Matted on a modern backing. 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

In the top two cartouches: Qur'an, surah al-Ahzab (XXXIII), 56.

In the green cartouches in side borders: Qur'an, surah al-Baqara (II), 255.

In the roundels of the borders:  The names of God, Muhammad, the Four Orthodox.

In the lamp in mirrored-form: ya fattah 'O the Opener! [of all gates]'.

In the middle cartouche:

mawla (sic.) al-sultan salim khan a'azza allah nasrahu fi sana 1209

'Protector Sultan Selim Khan, may God glorify his victory, in the year 1209 (1794-5)'.

In the two cartouches at the bottom:

amara bi-'amal hadhaha al-sitarah al-mubaraka / mawlana al-sultan al-a'zam salim khan

'Our Lord Sultan Selim Khan ordered the making of this blessed cover'.

With the tughra of Selim III (A.H. 1203-22 / A.D. 1789-1807).