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Lot 68
  • 68

A GOLD-MOUNTED ROCK-CRYSTAL DESK SEAL, PROBABLY PERSIAN, 1854 | A gold-mounted rock-crystal desk seal, probably Persian, 1854

Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 GBP
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Description

  • gold, rock crystal
  • 13cm. high
the handle of rock crystal overlaid with cut and engraved gold, the cap formed as a many petalled flower above a band of fuchsia flowers, the upright collar applied with engraved leaves and flowers, the rectangular matrix engraved closely in Persian script, reading 'jawhar-e a’yineh-ye ma’delat parani hami-ye din-e masiha’i bargozideh-ye arkan-e saltanat pasandideh-ye jomhure-e mamlekat-e napoleon-e seyyom shahanshah-e keyvan bargah-e ahl-e molk-e france 1854, translating to 'The essence of the mirror that spreads justice, protector of Christian religion, the choice of the pillars of sovereignty, admiration of the populace of the country, Napoleon III, the king of the seventh heaven, the court of the people of the land of France 1854'

Provenance

Napoléon III, Emperor of the French (1808-1873);
his consort Empress Eugénie (1826-1920);
Prince Victor Napoléon (1862-1926);
Prince Louis Napoléon (1914-1997)

Condition

Petals on finial are compressed on one side; otherwise good condition.
"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."

Catalogue Note

Persian diplomatic, commercial and cultural representation in France had been established for some 25 years before Napoléon III ordered the opening of a permanent French legation in Teheran in July 1854. The official role of the ministers was to lay the basis of French influence as protectors, teachers, court physicians and military advisors. Unofficially, as mentioned in the text on this seal, they also assumed the protection of Catholics of any nationality in Persia