LARGE TIN-PLATED COPPER BASIN Egypt or Mamluk Syria, late 15th-early 16th century Deep form with slightly sloping sides, finely engraved with medallions and lobed cartouches, alternating geometric and stylized floral motifs and three Arabic calligraphic medallions in thuluth, the base joined to the sides by a staple technique. Diameter: 41.5 cm (mouthpiece); 47.5 cm (max.) Provenance : Private Parisian collection, several generations old

Composed of several subsidiaries, the Drouot Group is a major player in the art market. Hôtel Drouot, located in the heart of Paris, has been the world's largest public auction center since 1852. 15 salerooms are available to more than 70 auction houses. The emulation generated by an annual offer of 230,000 artworks from 21 major specialities - from Antiquity to street art - attracts some 3,000 visitors every day. The Group's digital platform, Drouot.com, offers digital sales - Live auctions (live broadcasting and participation in auctions), Online-only auctions (dematerialised auctions) and Buy Now sales (sales of lots at fixed prices). Nearly 2 million items are offered annually by 600 auction houses. Auction news is reported every week in La Gazette Drouot, the leading weekly magazine for the art market and culture published by Auctionspress.