Four hardstone caskets

each with gilt-metal cagework mounts and four ball supports, the first of Scottish agate with thistle-engraved key plate, circa 1840, the other three blue-stained, probably Birmingham, circa 1880 (4)

Possibly two of the above acquired from Adamson, Edinburgh, 25 June 1969, 'Good Agate Box' and Grosvenor Antiques, 22 April 1969, 'Agate Box', according to Frederick McCarthy's stock books.

First with haircrack along natural flawline on lid, locked with no key; smallest has no base; medium size has no base, largest has small restored chip bottom right-hand corner of lid, and is also locked without key
"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."