Twenty-three silver-gilt horse trappings, India, 19th century

each of lozenge shape cast in relief with a quatrefoil design around a central oval motif, the reverse applied with four loops for attachment

some surface rubbing, overall in good condition, 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."

These twenty-three silver elements would, presumably, have formed part of the decoration on an elaborate set of horse trappings. The tradition of richly adorning the mount as well as the rider seems to have been in existence in India from at least as early as the Mughal period. Another set of trappings of fish form in a private collection have been published (Welch 1985, p.261, no.170).