Lot 75. A Seljuk inset gold belt, Seljuk Iran or Anatolia, 12th-13th century. Estimate GBP 50,000 - GBP 70,000 (USD 77,100 - USD 107,940). Price realised GBP 61,250 (USD 94,386) © Christie's Images Ltd 2011

Comprising four shaped stepped gold beads each set with three red carnelians, alternating with three tapering pyramidal rectangular beads each set with an emerald or black stone, these larger beads divided by cartouche-shaped panels each set with two pearls and two turquoises in high cylindrical shaped mounts, a shaped larger panel at each end similar to the cartouche panels but more elaborate, the larger beads each with strong stylised kufic inscriptions along the sides against a black panel ground, the longer sides with black niello benedictory naskh inscriptions, the reverse of the larger beads engraved and niello inlaid with arabesque interlace on a black ground, the smaller cartouche-shaped beads with black arabesque interlace on a gold ground, two of the largest beads with two confronted harpies overlaying the scrolling arabesque, all the beads linked by gold link chains, old bronze repairs, one reverse damaged, very slight loss of inlay. Overall 23in. (59cm.) long .