of spherical form with four raised tubular waisted sockets, each face engraved with a twelve-petalled rosette decorated in inlaid silver and gold, with alternating panels of scrolling arabesques and triangular interlocking key pattern, the shoulders decorated en suite, the sockets with various chain motifs

This item is in fair overall condition. Loss of inlay throughout, especially to one of the faces. One socket incomplete. Dented throughout, especially to one face, with five major dents. Losses to the sockets, especially to the rims. 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 intricate gold and silver-inlaid designs found on this window grill boss closely echo a number of decorative styles that were popular during the reign of the Ilkhanid Sultan Muhammad Uljaytu Khan (r.1304-17 AD). A patron of the arts, Uljaytu is known to have commissioned ambitious building projects, especially in the city of Sultaniyyah, which he made his capital. Indeed, his mausoleum is considered to be the best known monument of Ilkhanid Persia for its majestic architecture and vibrant decoration. The building's painted stucco patterns cover its walls and ceilings, displaying colourful interlocking key and chain designs similar to the ones on the current lot (see The Splendour of Iran, vol. II,&nbs🥀p;C. Parham (ed.), London, 2001, p.494).

Three comparable bosses are now in the Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo, all of which are inscribed with the name of the Uljaytu Khan. These have comparable decorative elements and their sockets have been likewise cast integrally in one piece with the ceౠntral boss. (P♌ope 1939, vol. VI, pl. 1357a).