Byzantine, 6th century and later

inscribed: al-birr wa ('Piety and...')

There are small areas of greening throughout the surface of the chalice consistent with age and material. There is an area of restoration around the bottom of the cup and a few smaller restorations around its rim. The cup also has some minor warping and denting.
"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."

Generally, Byzantine chalices of this form are dated to the 6th century. See for example a silver chalice in Byzantium 330-1453, exh. cat. Royal Academy of Arts, London, 2008, p. 89, no. 34 or a gold chalice sold in these room on 2 July 1973 (lot 7). This example was either made near or transported to the Arabian Peninsula. There it probably received its inscription between the 8th and 10th centuries, when Kufic was most current.