A CARVED LIZARDITE SERPENTINE AND GILT-METAL QUR'AN STAND, INDIA, CIRCA 19TH CENTURY |

of rectangular, x-shape form, set with jade plaques carved with floral details, the bracketed legs carved ensuite with flowerhead sections and a palmette above lobed arch, set in a gilt-metal frame decorated with foliate and geometric designs

Sotheby's, London, 16 April 1987, lot 458.

One of bottom jade plaques with diagonal break and a small further break with associated restoration, including some infill, few hairline cracks visible in other jade sections, the gilt metal frame slightly rusted, particularly in central section, some rubbing and losses of gilding, 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."

Qur'an stands worked from jade and other hardstones are extremely rare. Related examples, some of which are carved entirely out of jade, are in the Nasser D. Khalili Collection, London, the Los Angeles County Museum, (inv. no.M.76.2.19), and the David Collection, Copenhagen (inv. no.10/1982). 

Stands such as this were designed to hold large Qur'ans and could be found in both mosques and tombs. The legs were designed as lobed archways reminiscent of Mughal architecture.