A Monumental Gilt-Copper (Tombak) Crescent-Form Finial, Turkey, 16th and 18th Century

composed of  four sections, the wide, domed base mounted with a supporting shaft punctuated by three spherical mouldings beneath a crescent moon finial

In general good condition, some scratches and rubbing to gilding revealing some patination, few bumps and knicks, each section with two drill holes, two small cracks to edge of base, upper-most finial section either re-gilded or added later probably in 18th century, 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."

The striking tombak finial calls to mind the skyline of the Ottoman city, particularly Istanbul. This form of ornament was used to crown many of the architectural glories of the Empire, the great works of men such as Sinan. From the moment their golden surface reflected the first rays of the morning light to the end of the day when they are reduced to silhouettes by the setting sun, these iconic forms cast a spiritual shadow over the daily life of the Ottomans.

The finial is closely related to one in the Nasser D. Khalili Collection (Geneva 1995, p.37, no.6). The use of crescents on Muslim religious buildings was an established practice as least by the eleventh century when the Shaddadid emirs converted the cathedral of Ani by replacing the cross on its dome with a silver crescent.