carved as a long narrow oval tray with two pouter pigeons with expanded crops facing each other at either end of the tray, accompanied by a GIA certificate identifying the hardstone

overall good condition, one small scratch to the interior of the tray
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The pouter pigeon, which had been bred in Europe for several hundred years, enjoyed particular popularity around 1900. When the pigeons inhale air to expand their crop, a means of attracting attention for courtship and display, they resemble the S-bend silhouette that dominated much of women's fashion from 1900 to 1910 and was as popular at the Russian court as in London or Paris. The pouter pigeon itself was a popular breed among fanciers and a pouter pigeon carved of brown agate was among the animal figures completed by Fabergé around 1908 as part of the Sandringham commission and remains in the Royal Collection (RCIN 40467).