A fine and rare pair of Cantonese silver-gilt filigree rosewater sprinklers set with diamonds, for the Indian or Middle Eastern market, China, late 18th century

each with baluster body resting on a low splayed foot, the tall slender neck rising to a small terminal with pierced domed screw-on cover, silver filigree covering the whole body with curls and cellwork applied with flowers and leaves

Formerly in the possession of a princely Ottoman family

In good condition, minor loss to filigree decoration around the foot of one sprinkler and small dents and losses to arcade around the domed covers of each, as viewed.
"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 stat.mes nt made by Replica Shoes '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."

In the eighteenth century the southern Chinese port of Canton was the centre of a flourishing export trade. These rosewater sprinklers were made in imitation of an Indian form specifically for the Indian or Middle Eastern market. Similar sprinklers are to be found in the Clive collects ion at Powis Castle and were part of the booty looted from Tipu Sultan's private quarters after the battle of Seringapatam in 1799 (see Treasures from India: The Clive collects ion at Powis Castle, London, 1987, no.187).