Lot 73
  • 73

A Royal Firman of Nasir al-Din Shah Honouring Sir Henry Rawlinson (1810-1895), Persia, dated A.H. 1299/A.D. 1882

Estimate
6,000 - 10,000 GBP
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Description

Persian manuscript on paper, 5 panels of text written in small nasta'liq script in black ink within cloud bands on a gold ground in a single column, interspersed with panels of a gold scrolling foliate motif, a wide panel of vegetal design in colours and gold along the right hand side, the top panel bearing a seal stamp within a quatrefoil cartouche and above it the Qajar Royal insignia of lion and sun, framed, with inscriptive label in French on the reverse

Condition

In very good overall condition, very minor bubbling to the surface in the bottom right hand quadrant, small loss to the gilt plaster mount, 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

This royal order was written to accompany the gift of a portrait of Nasir al-Din Shah Qajar to Sir Henry Rawlinson, the diplomat and Orientalist who was instrumental in deciphering cuneiform and who is described in the document as a "friend of Iran". The portrait and this order were to be delivered in London through the offices of the Persian envoy.