- 169
A Fatimid marble jar-stand (Kilga), Egypt, 10th/11th century
Estimate
20,000 - 30,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- marble
of hollowed-out cylindrical form, with a rectangular trough and two projecting bosses in the form of lionheads, carved arch and muqarnas to the side panels, calligraphic band around base, standing on four feet
Provenance
Purchased by the owner's father in Egypt in 1961 (with receipt)
Condition
In fair condition, the surface weathered and worn with rubbing to decoration, one corner edge broken, the interior with some discoloration, few surface cracks, 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
Unique to Egypt and strongly associated with the Fatimid and Ayyubid dynasties, kilgas such as the present example were intended to be used as supports for unglazed terracotta water jars. The porous clay of the jar would allow water to slowly trickle through, cooling the liquid contents which would then collect in the basin. As well as holding an important functional purpose, a kilga such as this one, which stands on four grooved legs and carved on the sides with architectural arches and Kufic inscriptions can be admired for its strong sculptural quality.
For a full discussion of marble jar-stands originating in Egypt, see Elfried R. Knauer's article in the Metropolitan Museum Journal, New York, vol. 14, 1979, pp.67-101. A comparable example sold in these rooms, 9 October 2013, lot 110.
For a full discussion of marble jar-stands originating in Egypt, see Elfried R. Knauer's article in the Metropolitan Museum Journal, New York, vol. 14, 1979, pp.67-101. A comparable example sold in these rooms, 9 October 2013, lot 110.