French, 18th century

Overall the condition of the casket is very good. There is some minor wear and dirt consistent with age. There are some losses due to naturally occurring veins and some minor chips to the edges of the marble. There are some slight dents to the metal particularly to the lid. The handle is broken off but present.
"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 present coffer compares well with two metal and agate boxes (both in private collections) illustrated in the exhibition catalogue Tra/E. Teche, pissidi, cofani e forzieri dall'Alto. Medioevo al Barocco.  All three are composed of exotic marbles and have similar mounts with ball feet terminating stem-like supports. The present coffer is, however, considerably larger in scale and exhibits more intricate silver detailing.

RELATED LITERATURE
P. Lorenzelli and A. Veca, Tra/E. Teche, pissidi, cofani e forzieri dall'Alto. Medioevo al Barocco, Bergamo, 1984, no. 493-4, p. 350