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

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

the domed skull of the helmet decorated with embossed floral motifs bordered by a series of gold-damascened palmettes comprising floral sprays, the rim with calligraphic inscriptions within cusped medallions, with applied nasal guard, plume holders, spike finial and aventail; the shield with hunting scenes surrounding a central calligraphic roundel, the rim with two further bands of calligraphy
H: 46 cm ; 18⅛in. W: 9 cm ; 3/1 in. L: 46 cm ; 18⅛ in. (shield), H: 25 cm ; 9¾ in. W: 21,5 cm ; 8½ in. L: 19,5 cm ; 7¾ in. (helmet without chain mail)

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Casque (kulah khud) et bouclier en acier ciselé à décor damasquiné d’or, Iran, Qajar, fin 19e siècle

H: 46 cm ; 18⅛in. W: 9 cm ; 3/1 in. L: 46 cm ; 18⅛ in. (bouclier), H: 25 cm ; 9¾ in. W: 21,5 cm ; 8½ in. L: 19,5 cm ; 7¾ in. (casque sans camail)

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Condition Report:
Chiselled design strong and complex, the gold overlay visible, tarnishing to silver - notably inscriptions - which could benefit from a professional clean, slight weathering, notably to four protruding bosses, external edge with some scratches and minor dents, underside with further abrasion, with two large loops and two smaller; the helmet with corresponding chiselled design, some weathering to surface and tarnishing to silver, notably inscriptions, some tears in the chain mail, interior also with some wear, 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."