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An illuminated firman of Dara Shikoh (r.1616-59), Mughal, dated 31st regnal year 1068 AH/1657 AD
Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- ink and gold on paper
Persian manuscript on paper, 5 lines to the page, written in nasta'liq script in black ink, surmounted by 2 tughras and bismillah in gold, and a large seal impression, further seal impression to reverse
Condition
In generally good overall condition, some light waterstaining, creasing as was once folded, minor paper repairs, 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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
inscriptions
On the back: the seal impression of Vazir Khan, dated 31st [regnal year] 1067 AH (1656-7 AD).
The present firman from Dara Shikoh is addressed to Hari Singh, expressing appreciation of his services and support. The document bears the seal of Dara Shikoh dated [regnal year] 30, 1066 AH (1655-56 AD) and the tughras of both Shah Jahan and Dara Shikoh.
Vazir Khan is likely to be Muhammad Salih Khwafi, who started his career as an accountant of the Royal Artillery. Shah Jahan, recognising his abilities in administration, appointed him as the kotval of the camp and raised his rank. In the 26th regnal year he accompanied Dara Shikoh on his expedition to Qandahar, and was later promoted, being given the title Mu’tamid al-Dawla in the 28th regnal year and appointed Divan of Dara Shikoh and later titled by the prince as Vazir Khan. He was killed in the battle between Aurangzeb and Dara Shikoh Samugarh in 1068 (1658 AD) (for more on him, see The al-Maathir-ul-umara, translated by Beveridge, reprint, 1999, vol.II, pp.343-4).
On the back: the seal impression of Vazir Khan, dated 31st [regnal year] 1067 AH (1656-7 AD).
The present firman from Dara Shikoh is addressed to Hari Singh, expressing appreciation of his services and support. The document bears the seal of Dara Shikoh dated [regnal year] 30, 1066 AH (1655-56 AD) and the tughras of both Shah Jahan and Dara Shikoh.
Vazir Khan is likely to be Muhammad Salih Khwafi, who started his career as an accountant of the Royal Artillery. Shah Jahan, recognising his abilities in administration, appointed him as the kotval of the camp and raised his rank. In the 26th regnal year he accompanied Dara Shikoh on his expedition to Qandahar, and was later promoted, being given the title Mu’tamid al-Dawla in the 28th regnal year and appointed Divan of Dara Shikoh and later titled by the prince as Vazir Khan. He was killed in the battle between Aurangzeb and Dara Shikoh Samugarh in 1068 (1658 AD) (for more on him, see The al-Maathir-ul-umara, translated by Beveridge, reprint, 1999, vol.II, pp.343-4).