- 21
French, Limoges, circa 1220-1230
Estimate
6,000 - 8,000 GBP
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Description
- Pyx with scrolling vines
- gilt and champlevé enamelled copper
- French, Limoges, circa 1220-1230
Condition
Overall the condition of the pyx is good. There is wear and some minor dirt to the surface consistent with age including rubbing to the gilding throughout. There are a few minor nicks to the metalwork and a few minor losses to the enamel. The clasp has broken off the lid. There is some movement in the hinge, which is reinforced on the inside. The edges of the lid and underside are slightly warped.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
Pyxides are used to keep the consecrated wafers for the sacrament of the Eucharist. They were among the objects most frequently made by the Limoges workshops. Besides their famous enamelled and engraved patterns Limoges pyxides are recognisable by their remarkably simple construction: a sheet of copper was hammered to form a circular band, soldered shut with a vertical seam and fixed with nails to a round flat base, then the cover, made from a single piece of metal, was attached to the back of the body by a hinge. Pyxides exists in many forms: a Limoges pendant in the present collection (lot 6269Z) possibly also served as one.
The present pyx follows the same pattern of design as one with a monotone blue enamel ground from the Baron Cassel van Doorn collection sold at Sotheby's New York on 29 May 1981, lot 33.
The present pyx follows the same pattern of design as one with a monotone blue enamel ground from the Baron Cassel van Doorn collection sold at Sotheby's New York on 29 May 1981, lot 33.