Lot 95. A  Mughal carved rock crystal vase, North India, 18th century; 10.2 cm high. Price realised GBP 20,160 (Estimate GBP 20,000 – GBP 30,000). © Christie's Images Ltd 2024

The spherical body decorated with a band of vertical stems in the lower section issuing flowers and mulberries, a raised leaf on either side rising vertically from the base and terminating in the bud handles, raised rim, the base decorated with a petalled flowerhead forming a short foot, repair to the rim.

Provenance: UK Private Collection since the late 19th century (by repute)
Anon sale, Bonhams London, 2 October 2012, lot 225

Note: Using only bow-driven lathes and wheels, the craftsmen of the Mughal atelier managed to produce exceptionally fine rock crystal vessels. The quality of both the carving and the material itself, a near-flawless transparent piece of quartz, is allowed to come to the foreground through the absence of further embellishments, such as gold inlay or gem-settings. That carved rock crystal vessels of this type continued to be prized possessions long after they were made is evidenced by an enameled gold dish and cover dated AH 1226 / 1811-2 AD that were made for a 17th century Mughal rock crystal bowl in the Wallace Collection, London (acc. no. OA1662).

A rock crystal vase of a very similar form to the present example, but significantly cruder carving, is in the Victoria & Albert Museum (acc. no. IM.329-1920).

Rock crystal two-handled pot, Mughal empire, 18th century, Victoria & Albert Museum (acc. no. IM.329-1920).

Christie's. ART OF THE ISLAMIC AND INDIAN WORLDS INCLUDING RUGS AND CARPETS, London, 25 April 2024