A George I black lacquered casket decorated with the arms of Sir Francis Child first quarter 18th century

the domed lid with a gilt and silver heightened armorial, the sides with Chinoiserie decoration, losses and wear to decoration

Sir Francis Child (1642-1713), probably at Lincolns Inn Field, London; thereafter at Osterley Park House, Middlesex (recorded in the Inventory of Contents taken in 1915 as in the Entrance Hall)

An important academic piece. Significant losses to lacquered decoration and some splits to veneers. The decoration to the lacquer is rubbed in places. The front and rear of the lower part are warped. Interestingly the piece has an oak under carcass. The brass has and lock are tarnished but good. An atmospheric lot.
"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."

This casket is part of a highly important group of Chinese laquered furniture that formed part of a commission for Sir Francis Child.  These pieces, all featuring the Child coat of arms, included a set of six chairs and a pair of domed coffers on stands which were given by the late Lord Jersey to the National Trust for Osterley Park House.  A further four chairs and a centre table are still in the family collection. The group may well have arrived at Osterley in 1725 with an extensive Chinese armorial service, bearing the Child arms, (see David Sanctuary Howard, Chinese Armorial Porcelain, p. 175, fig. A8).

Similarly decorated lacquer pieces in the English form are known to have been produced in China for sophisticated English patrons.  The Royal collection has some fine Chinese export furniture and further items are documented as being formerly in the collections of the Earl of Harrington and the Marquesses of Cholmondely.