AEGIDIUS SADELER II (D.1629) AFTER ESAYE DE GILLON (FL.1604-05), PORTRAIT OF MECHTI KULI BEG, AMBASSADOR OF SHAH ABBAS I TO THE COURT OF RUDOLPH II AT PRAGUE, 1605 |

ink on watermarked paper

In generally good condition, minor stains and creases, 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."

Aegidius Sadeler became court engraver to Emperor Rudolf II from 1597. This portrait depicts Mechti Kuli Beg, Ambassador of Shah Abbas at the court in Prague in 1605, just two years after the Safavid empire launched an attack against the eastern border of the Ottoman empire to help Emperor Rudolf II in his struggle against the Ottomans. Two prints are now in the British Museum, London, inv.no.1868,0808.2488 and 1871,0812.4208; one in the Victoria & Albert Museum, London, inv.no.E.5423-1919; another in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, inv.no.49.95.2202 and one in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, inv.no.M26883.