A Portuguese-Colonial pewter mounted and engraved pewter inlaid tortoiseshell casket First half 17th Century

with a canted lid decorated with vases of flowers above a shield shaped foliate cast lockplate, flanked by two female busts, amongst a basket of scrolling flowers and foliage; the sides inlaid with a bird, the reverse engraved with geometric motifs and scrolling foliage and highlighted in pewter

There are some minor areas of pewter rope-twist border missing as visible from the photo, which can easily be replaced. Some very minor chips generally and old restorations, which have been very well executed and are hardly noticable. The female bust on the right side of the lockplate is probably a later replacement. The pewter would benefit from a light clean. The inlay on the reverse and on the rear of the top, and the decoration has been highlighted with silver paint and not pewter. The lower section of the left hand hinge of the back is a later replacement and the right panel on the back would also appear to be a later replacement. In overall good original condition.
"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."