An Illustrated and Illuminated leaf from a Mughal manuscript depicting Noah's Ark, India, 17th century

Gouache heightened with gold on paper, the painting depicting an ark sailing amid the waves, the hold teeming with animals, with nine figures higher up on deck, ruled in colours and gold, the outer margins decorated with flowering plants in gold, the reverse with 20 lines of text in nastali'q script in black ink within cloudbands against a gold ground, with illuminated headpiece decorated with scrolling polychrome flowers with strapwork borders, the outer margins with corresponding floral decoration

In generally good overall condition, gold bright and colours vivid, some minor retouching, a few nibbles to the edges, a few very minor stains, 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."