Dutch Colonial, Indonesia, 17th century

Overall the condition of the casket is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few losses to the tortoiseshell, including to the top left corner of the main front panel, the lower left corner of the main left side panel, to the right side panel on the lid, and to edges of the main back panel. There are also smaller chips and losses and some discolouration to the tortoiseshell near the mounts. There is some splitting to the tortoiseshell, particularly to the left side of the main front panel, to the top of the lid and to the back panel on the lid. There are also some scratches to the tortoiseshell. There is some oxidation to the silver consistent with material and some green residues. There are some dirt residues to the underside and fraying to the velvet lining the interior.
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.

The incised silver mounts with foliate designs on the present casket compare closely with those adorning another tortoiseshell coffer from the Dutch East Indies, formerly known as Batavia, modern-day Indonesia, which was offered at Sotheby's Zurich on 3 April 1981, lot 31. Note the handles with their similar flower petal mount plates. A particularly delightful detail of the present casket is the fictive keyhole in the centre of the lockplate; the real keyhole is only revealed once the clasp is lifted.

Demand for tortoiseshell goods flourished in Europe after Catherine of Austria, Queen of Portugal (1507-1578), adopted it as her material of choice for exotic diplomatic gifts. Many tortoiseshell objects were traded by the Dutch East India Company, or V.O.C., and this example would undoubtedly have been made for the European market.