A FINE OTTOMAN LEATHER DOCUMENT CASE, ISTANBUL, TURKEY, DATED 1785 |

of rectangular form, the leather embroidered throughout with metal thread in a symmetrical design of a formal arabesque of flowering vines, the reverse with a monogram 'C.O.G.' and the inscription Ancona, the interior flap with 'Constantinople 1785'

In excelent condition, minor scrathces and minor damages to the embroidery, 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."

Letter wallets such as this were produced in the eighteenth century and likely used as export products for the European market. A very similar one, of same size, colour and embroidery is now in the Sadberk Hanim Museum, Instanbul (in.no. SHM 15113-i1473), published in Bilgi & Zanbak 2012, p.348. The current example is particularly interesting for the initials on the reverse and the mention of the Italian city of Ancona, probably the origin of the individual who commissioned the embroidery.