A post-Nasrid walnut and ivory-inlaid scribe's chest, probably Barcelona, Spain, 16th Century

of rectangular form with lid secured on underside by three metal hinges, the exterior inlaid with micro-mosaic panels of ivory and walnut wood, featuring interlacing star motifs and geometric patterns, interior of lid also inlaid with ivory in a symmetrical flowerhead motif, the inside with a small lidded drawer to one side, also with inlaid decoration, the top edges decorated with floral motifs in interlacing arches, with plain lock and key

In general good condition, some restoration, few small cracks to wood and minor holes to base and reverse, some ivory plaques replaced and re-varnishing, small drawer missing on the right hand side, as viewed.
"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 practice of inlaying ivory into walnut dates back to the Umayyad period and is recorded in both Spain and North Africa. Luxury furniture decorated with micro-mosaics was particularly popular under Nasrid patronage in fourteenth/fifteenth century Spain, and the present casket, though slightly later in date, presents a fine example of the enduring legacy of this tradition.

For a similar example in the collections of the Hispanic Society of America, New York,, see: Ecker, H., Caliphs and Kings: The Art and Influence of Islamic Spain, Washington, 2004, p.108, no.86.