Swiss 'Black Forest' school, 19th Century

Swiss, late 19th century

carved linden wood, glass



with detachable head opening to reveal a hollow interior

In very good restored condition, with an age crack and signs of filler.
"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 amusing container possibly conceived as a tobacco box, comes from a school of woodcarving most usually associated with a group of carvers working in Brienz, Switzerland. The term 'Black Forest' is something of a misnomer. Skilled woodcarvers working in linden wood took advantage of developing tourism in the area. So successful were these different workshops that work from the area was exhibited internationally and catalogues were produced showing the huge array of items produced. For similar caskets in the form of animal heads and a box in the form of a fox head with inset glass eyes, see Arenski et al, Swiss Carvings, The Art of the 'Black Forest' 1820-1940, Woodbridge, 2005, p. 66, fig. 78.