L12231

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Lot 55
  • 55

German, late 16th/ early 17th century

Estimate
7,000 - 10,000 GBP
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Description

  • Pendant in the form of a betrothal casket
  • partially enamelled gold set with rubies, emeralds and later pearls
inscribed in the lid: QVOS DEVS CONIVNXIT HOMO NE SEPARET and monogrammed: TMHC and MVGIE

Provenance

by repute the Albertine Wettin family, Electors and Kings of Saxony, Halle, Germany

Condition

Overall the condition of the pendant is good. There is some minor wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There are some losses to the enamel, particularly to the putti and lion. There are a few losses to the bezels and there are chips to both emeralds. The smaller pearls are later replacements and were in some instances reattached, the suspended pearl is possibly also later.
"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. 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."

Catalogue Note

The miniature casket with a reclining lion on each slope of the lid opens to reveal a memento mori consisting of  three inset panels enclosing a baby, a naked child next to an hour glass and a skeleton. On the interior of the lid clasped hands above a heart and the inscription which alludes to the last line of the marriage service in translation What God has joined together let no man put asunder, corroborates the assertion that this jewel would have been a marriage gift.

RELATED LITERATURE
Princely Magnificence. Court Jewels of the Renaissance 1500-1630, exhib. cat. Victoria and Albert museum, London, 1980, nos. 75 and 121