Indo-Portuguese, 17th century

Overall the condition of the casket is good with dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The lock mechanism functions, as do the draws, which have hidden latches inside the casket. Consistent with the inlay technique, there are joints and pins in the tortoisheshell, bone and ivory throughout; a few pins are lost. It is possible that a few pieces of inlay may have been reattached/ replaced. There are losses to the sides of the tortoiseshell panel on the left draw and to the main front panel around the lockplate (restored with wax). There are a number of fissures to the tortoiseshell, including to the right side panel. There are a few small chips and losses, including to the bone panel on the right edge of the lid. There is minor oxidation to the silver mounts consistent with material and some discolouration to the ivory near the handle. There are some scratches and abrasions to the ivory and bone in particular. The front bottom right corner of the casket is a little warped. One of the feet is slightly loose and there are a few small losses to the wood core and feet. There is minor splitting to the wood on the underside consistent with material.
"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."

This unusual casket finds comparisons in 17th-century Indo-Portuguese ivory and tortoiseshell cabinets. Compare, for example, with the cabinet sold at Sotheby's London, on 5 December 2007, lot 57. Note the analagous combination of ivory and tortoiseshell, the small drawers, and the similar rosette-shaped silver handle plates.