An Ivory and Rosewood Inlaid Gamesboard

the exterior with a chessboard incorporating alternating squares with stylized foliate patterns and surrounded by various reserves with similar patterns, flowerheads and arabesques, the sides with chevron patterns of wood and ivory, the interior with a backgammon board centered and surrounded by similarly inlaid reserves to the exterior, the board with alternating bands of plane ivory and certosina decoration with stained ivory embellished with further certosina bands throughout, with iron clasp and lock plate, later brass hinges.

RELATED LITERATURE

Spielwelten der Kunst-Kunstkammerspiel (exh.cat.), Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, 21 May - 2 August 1998, nos. 24 and 25.

Age cracks throughout. General surface abrasions. Small areas of losses to inlay. Some patching or restorations to inlay (mainly to ivory) on chevron pattern along the sides. Later hinges.
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 statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

While the type of certosina inlay on the present lot is typical of the work created in Northern Italy, specifically the Embriachi workshops in the 14th and 15th centuries, this embellishment was also employed in Spain two centuries later. Compare another, earlier, Spanish gamesboard with similar certosina decoration in Spielwelten der Kunst-Kunstkammerspiel (op.cit., no.24). Furthermore, the arabesque ornament used clearly illustrates a strong Moorish influence also characteristic of Spanish decorative arts in this period.