A gold-overlaid steel helmet (kulah khud), Persia, Qajar, 19th century

A gold-overlaid steel helmet (kulah khud), Persia, Qajar, 19th century

of high domed form, the skull decorated with scrolling and interlaced arabesques around cartouches comprising inscriptions, a narrow band of calligraphic cartouches around the rim, with applied nasal guard, four plume holders, spike finial, and chain mail neck guard, the applied elements decorated with gold damascened floral motifs
26,4 cm ; 10⅜ in. (without aventail)
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Casque (kulah khud) en acier ciselé à décor damasquiné d’or, Iran, Qajar, 19e siècle

26,4 cm ; 10⅜ in. (sans aventail)

Condition Report:
The surface with some weathering and erosion, gold designs mainly visible, very minor rubbing in some areas, small sections of chainmail missing near the edges of helmet, interior of helmet with erosion and some encrustation, 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."

Provenance:
Christie's London, Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds, 17 April 2007, lot 257