Rare nécessaire de mineur miniature en argent, Japon, vers 1900,

comprenant douze outils miniature, les manches amovibles, et une plaque gravée Manggar 1902, dans leur présentoir



comprising twelve miniature tools, all with detachable handles, and a plaque engraved Manggar 1902, in fitted stand

In overall good condition. Each tool stamped with two Japonese marks and with a Dutch control mark (boar head within a triangle). One mark means Japanse money or gold, the other mark seems to be local adaptation of Japanese, maybe a name of city of country. Rare and attractive set.
"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."

Manggar est une ville indonésienne située sur l'île de Belitung entre Java et Bornéo, réputée pour ses mines d'étain. Cette exploitation minière était, naturellement, souvent dirigée par des Hollandais et il est très vraisemblable que ce rare nécessaire ait été offert en guise de cadeau à un de ces dirigeants, ce qui expliquerait le poinçon de contrôle hollandais.

Manggar is an Indonesian city on the island of Belitung between Java and Borneo, famous for its tin mines. These mines were often exploited by Dutchmen and this rare set is probably a gift to one of them. That would explain the Dutch control mark visible on the pieces.