A Mughal carved ivory zoomorphic powder flask, India, 17th century

of curved form, from two sections of tusk joined at centre, worked in relief with antelopes, tigers and elephants, floral details, brass loop 

In generally good condition, the section at the centre joined together with adhesive, two old hairline cracks with associated studs to consolidate, some discoloration, few light scratches to surface, 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 is a fine example of a Mughal powder-primer of a type documented in several European collections by the seventeenth century. Three examples are in the National Museum, Copenhagen, listed in inventories of 1690 & 1737, and a further two are known to have been in the collections of Prince Elector Johann Georg II of Saxony by 1658 now in the Historisches Museum, Dresden (see Dam-Mikkelsen & Lundbaek 1980, pp.111, nos.62-64 and Skelton 1982, pp.135-6, nos.439-441). Another is in the David Collection, Copenhagen, inv. no. 1/1974.