A German parcel-gilt silver pomander, unmarked, seventeenth century

in the form of a snail, one side of its 'shell' pierced and opening to reveal a compartment for an aromatic sponge, the other with four compartments inscribed Schlag, Canel, Rosen, and Negel [?], suspension ring

good gilding and colour generally, good condition, nice object
"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."

Pomanders were suspended from the wearer's neck or girdle by a chain and used to hold scents and spices. Although occasionally modelled as a skull or die, the normal pomander form is round, with compartments like orange segments. A snail-form pomander is unusual, but the mollusk was used in German mannerist ornament by influential designers including Virgil Solis, resident of both Augsburg and Nuremberg.