A pair of Charles II silver-gilt rectangular caskets, unmarked, probably London, circa 1680

hinged covers chased in high relief with scenes of Venus, Bacchus and Ceres, sides with putti amid scrolling acanthus leaves, bird supports, the front panels armorial engraved, scratchweights 61=10 and 60=07

Jane Bickerton, Duchess of Norfolk (1644-1693)
Possibly by descent to one of her children, the Lords George and James Howard and the Ladies Katherine and Philippa Howard
Frederick, 2nd Baron Hesketh

The supports and the covers need resetting, although this is not serious. The highlights on the covers are slightly rubbed. The embossing has tiny puntures. The covers have been decorated by two different chasers.
"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."

The arms are those of Jane Bickerton, Duchess of Norfolk, former mistress and second wife of Henry Howard, 6th Duke of Norfolk (1628-83), whom he married in January 1677/8.

These caskets form part of The Duchess of Norfolk's Toilet Service sold, Sotheby's London, 29 November 2006. While only a pair of flasks and the pin cushion in the service bear the hallmarks of Thomas Jenkins, it seems likely that the entire set, charachterised by rich Restoration decoration, is from Jenkins's workshop.