A palanquin finial in the form of a yali riding a makara, India, Golconda, circa 1650-80

carved metal in the shape of a makara, with a yali riding on its back, punched and engraved details, traces of polychromy

Sultans of Deccan India, 1500-1700: Opulence and Fantasy, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 20 April - 26 July 2015.

Sultans of Deccan India, 1500-1700: Opulence and Fantasy, ed. N.N. Haidar and M. Sardar, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 20 April - 26 July 2015, pp.246-8, no.142.

The metal body with some patches of oxidisation and abrasion, notably visible to interior, two protruding components to the chest and under the chin appear to have been broken, traces of polychromy throughout, some general wear as consistent with age and use, 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."

It can be surmised that this palanquin finial, carved as a makara with a creature resembling the mythical yali riding on its back, would have been used in the procession of a nobleman rather than woman, whose processional palanquins seem to be adorned with floral finials rather than figural (see Haidar and Sardar 2015, p.24-28, figs.77 and 78).