A gilt-metal and micromosaic jewel casket, circa 1860

rectangular, the lid and sides with micromosaic panels with Roman views: St Peter's basilica and square, the Pantheon, the Coliseum, the Temple of Vesta, the Temple of Vespasian in the Roman forum, the Arch of Titus, the Tomb of Cecilia Metella

micromosaic in good condition, apart from the front panel with two cracks, the back panel with one crack and the panel on lid with one restuck chip to bottom right corner. some traces of glue throughout inside.
"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."

As the technique of micromosaics was mastered in the early 19th century, many workshops flourished in Rome, selling views of the Eternal City in micromosaics for mounting in jewellery, jewel caskets and larger works of art. For a large gilt-bronze table whose micromosaic top is composed of the most celebrated Roman views similar to the ones on this casket, now dated circa 1825-1875, see the Gilbert Collection, at the Victoria & Albert museum, London (J. Gabriel, The Gilbert Collection, Micromosaics, 2000, Fig. 69)