A group of four hardstone boxes

comprising: an oval box, English or German, 18th century, the lid and base of puddingstone panels within wave-engraved gold mounts, width 8cm, 3 1/8 in; another, probably Spanish, 20th century, rectangular, the lid set with an oval agate panel within scroll-chased borders, width 7.8cm, 3in; and two modern boxes, Lopez, Madrid, of elongated oval form, the lid of the first set with a cigar-shaped panel of banded agate within a Greek key border, width 6.5cm, 2 1/2 in; the second inset with mottled agate, reeded mounts, width 8cm, 3 1/8 in

Please note: The three Spanish boxes are struck with local marks for gold and/or have tested positive for gold; however, as they lack UK import marks and are of post-1922 manufacture, UK hallmarking regulations prevent us from describing them as gold. Condition: There is a small chip (approx. 2mm x 2mm) to the lid of the first (the German) box. Otherwise, all in good order.
"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."