Ink and gouache on paper heightened with gold, 4 lines of text written in panels above and below the painting in nasta'liq script in black ink within cloudbands against a gold ground embellished with flowers, laid on a later blue border decorated with outdoor scenes of wildlife and vegetation 

In fairly good overall condition, some slight rubbing to the borders, a few creases to the miniature and a small area of flaking to one of the prisoners' trousers, pasted on a modern card backing, 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."

The text in prose concerns a youth who comes across a cave where two men are hanging.  He is so shocked that he loudly recites the basmala and when the landlord hears it, he goes to the youth and says he has not heard the verse for a long time.