Bonhams have announced further details of their upcoming sale of Indian and Islamic Art, scheduled for April 24 in London.
Back in February we previewed the sale with the notable Indian Art collection of Dr Linda York Leach, which features a wealth on Indian miniature paintings.
Now Bonhams have released details of another exceptional item set for the sale - an 18th century Indian jade-backed mirror with a fascinating royal history.
The ornately-carved, gold mounted oval mirror originates from Northern India, and is set with numerous gemstones including rubies and emeralds. Its handle is formed in the shape of a three leaf acanthus stem, and its back is carved in relief with a flowering plant and vine motif.
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"Jade carving at the Mughal court was of superior craftsmanship and pieces of this quality are highly sought after," said Alice Bailey, Head of Islamic and Indian Art at Bonhams. "Chinese jade carvings have topped auction estimates in recent years and fine works of Indian jades are expected to do the same."
The mirror has been previously owned by both the Royal Houses of India and Denmark, and will be offered at the sale with a pre-sale estimate of £40,000 - £60,000.
The market for Islamic art has seen dramatic increases in recent years, as the truly global art market welcomes wealthy collectors from developing economies.
The Bonhams auction in May looks certain to draw interest from serious collectors, as they look to capitalise on this rapidly rising category.
For results from the auction, and all the latest information from the international art auction markets, visit our dedicated art news section here.