Arts of the Islamic World & India

A handle of an ivory fly whisk (chauri), India, 18th century

Restricted Species

Estimate

5,000 - 8,000 GBP

Lot Details

Description

composed of three pieces of ivory, the head carved in deep relief with a repeating pattern of flowers and cypresses, the spiral haft with carved with the same motif at the top, the ‘pinecone’-form pommel cap loose

38cm.

This lot contains elephant ivory, which is an endangered species. Sotheby’s recommends that buyers check with their own government regarding any importation requirements prior to placing a bid, as lots containing endangered species may be subject to import restrictions in certain countries or necessitate licenses and certificates for export from some and import into others. The possession of an export license or certificate does not guarantee obtaining its counterpart elsewhere. Buyers must ascertain and adhere to all applicable regulatory requirements regarding the import and export of such items before bidding, securing all necessary licenses and certificates at their expense. The inability to export or import these items, or their seizure by a government agency, does not justify delaying payment or cancelling a sale.

Philippe Missillier Collection no.161C

Much like the mace, the fly whisk served a hybrid role as a functional object and an emblem of office. By the eighteenth century, the role of carrying the fly whisk was a recognised court position and the fly whisk, their badge of office, was often made of precious materials and set with the feathers of prestigious birds such as the peacock. Ivory fly-whisk handles are rare. An ivory handle with a cylindrical socket (in place of the floral bloom-shaped socket here), is in the David Collection, Copenhagen (inv. no.215/2006).

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