A carved ivory casket or workbox on stand, circa 1820

formed as a lidded bowl-shaped velvet-lined box, set into a tripod stand with shelf, on paw feet, very finely carved, the legs with vine tendrils depending from lion masks, further ornamented with friezes of roses within neo-classical ornament

VERY FRAGILE - In excellent condition - a join on the tray rim has sprung and there are traces of glue at the top of two legs and one pendent urn but carving appears intact throughout.
"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 place of origin of this exceptional ivory casket has been the subject of lively debate. The form is essentially neo-classical and European with close association to Adam designs. An early 19th century South German tortoiseshell and ivory cup made for Graf Francis I of  Erbach-Erbach is of very similar form (Hans Werner Hegemann, Elfenbein in Plastik, Schmuck und Gerät, Hanau, pl.35). Yet certain elements of the delicately-carved ornament such as the bands of roses with their nestling leaves seem essentially Cantonese in inspiration if not in origin.