A portrait of Sultan Ibrahim Adil Shah II, Deccan, Bijapur, first half 17th century

gouache with gold on paper, mounted on an album page with blue and orange borders

Formerly in the Hagop Kevorkian Collection, New York
Sold in these rooms 7 April 1975, lot 166.

Some abrasion and flaking of surface pigments. Upper left corner of paper of portrait lifting, 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."

This portrait depicts the Bijapuri Sultan Ibrahim Adil Shah II (r.1579-1627), the greatest Deccani patron of the arts of the period. He employed a large number of talented artists, poets and calligraphers, and his library was legendary among contemporary rulers. Indeed, at least two thousand manuscripts and illustrations were sent to the Mughal court as tribute in 1601. Appropriately, he is depicted here holding a bound manuscript in his right hand. The manner in which the folds of the drapery are depicted here is typical of the Bijapur style of the first half of the seventeenth century.