A Louis XIV ormolu-mounted, tortoiseshell, mother-of-pearl, brass and pewter-inlaid Boulle marquetry casket circa 1700

decorated en contre-partie, the hinged canted rectangular domed top with concave sides mounted with foliate-cast ormolu bands and opening to a finished kingwood interior, the outswept sides of the domed top decorated with tortoiseshell strapwork enclosing birds, shells and rosettes and fitted with acanthus-cast ormolu mounts at the corners, the sides of the base depicting landscapes with birds in flight and bathing putti and fitted with foliate-cast ormolu mounts at the corners, raised on short foliate-cast ormolu feet.

The Property of a European Collector, Christie's New York, Arts of France, October 21, 1997, lot 21

Mother of pearl and tortoiseshell inlay with small age cracks and scattered minor areas of infill. With some later paint; most to lower right corner of top. Ormolu with rubbing at edges and corners, traces of oxidation and surface dirt. Some minor scattered surface dents; not extensive. Some losses to penwork of mother-of-pearl inaly. Some rubbing to brass. Partially with later clear lacquer. Rosewood interior refinished. In good condition.
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.