A large gilt-bronze-mounted brass, pewter and tortoiseshell inlaid contre-partie boulle marquetry and ebony casket Napoleon III, circa 1870

of rectangular form with canted corners the raised top centred by Cupid with a spaniel amongst clouds opening to reveal a later crushed pink velvet lined interior, the frieze with a band of guilloche, the bowed middle section applied with a bacchic mask and female masks on each side, each angle applied with a female term two holding a ewer and two with the attributes of Geometry above a concave frieze on turtle feet, the whole inlaid with scrolling foliage and flowers in tortoiseshell, brass and pewter on a brass ground

A rare piece in overall good conserved condition. Attractive detail to casting. Colour of gilding more golden and less greenish and more natural and attractive than in the catalogue photograph.There are old minor restorations to the inlay which has been well executed. There are old minor dents and minor areas of discolouration to the brass ground. Beneath the cupid mount there is a navette shaped brass patch which may well be part of the design.
"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."