Deux tabatières en argent et "émail de Saxe", vers 1730

chacune en argent, le couvercle orné d'un panneau en émail décoré de scènes mythologiques en relief d'or sur un fond de fleurs ou de paysage, non poinçonnées



the first cartouche form, the lid inset with an enamel panel decorated in raised gilding with mythological figures on a landscape ground; the second similarly decorated, the enamel panel with figures of Athene and Neptune on a flowery ground, each with silver box unmarked

First: plaque in really excellent unrubbed condition, base of box slightly loose in mount; Second: wear to gilding on water barrel, old restoration at top right corner, now lacking lid lining but with later inner rim presumably to contain a miniature
"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 gold relief allegorical figures on the second box are taken from medals by Raymond Faltz who worked for the court of Brandenburg-Prussia; the figure of the Rhine river god from a medal of 1689 and that of Minerva with a lion from a medal struck the following year.

For further information, see Walter Holzhausen, 'Email mit Goldauflage in Berlin und Meissen nach 1700', Der Kunstwanderer, 23 September 1930, pp. 6-8.