CERAM SHIELD, MOLUCCAS ARCHIPELAGO, INDONESIA

inlaid with pāua (Haliotis iris) and diadem volute (Melo amphora) shell.

Possibly Madeleine Rousseau, Paris
Alain Schoffel, Paris
Acquired by the present owner from the above in the early 1990s

Very good condition for an object of this type and age. Some wooden pegs attaching the border of the shield are missing, and some sections now glued. Small losses around edges. Inlaid materials generally in good condition, some minor chipping and small cracks. Nicks, scratches, wear and tear throughout from age and handling. Fine blackened patina on shield face, dark brown patina on reverse, and varying cream-white patina on inlays.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This magnificent Ceram shield dates to the 19th century or earlier. The bamboo rim as well as the inlay made of different materials including paua shell, bailer shell, and porcelain attest to great age. For a closely related example previously in the collections of Morris J. Pinto and Alain Schoffel see Schoffel (1981: 104, pl. 93).