An illustration from a series on divination and omens (Falnamah): Majnun spying Layla, India, Mughal, circa 1580

gouache on cloth, nasta'liq text above and below in two columns, marginal rulings in red

In fair condition, the cloth backing with some restoration, notably to the bottom section, which is mounted on another cloth and the corners of the top edge, with some stains visible mainly to reverse and in some sections of the painted surface, the edges are slightly frayed, the paint with some flaking and losses, including rubbed sections, the central image appears to have some small areas of overpainted, 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."

See catalogue note to previous lot.

Various episodes from the story of Layla and Majnun often feature in Falnamahs, where they are accompanied by warnings, auguries and symbolic references (see M. Farhad with S. Bagci, Falnama, The Book of Omens, Washington D.C., 2009, pp.29, 37, 52, 144).