Italian, Naples, mid-18th century

Overall the condition of the casket is good with wear and some dirt to the surface consistent with age and handling. There are some areas of greyish discolouration to the outside surfaces, in particular to the sides and to the upper edge of the underside; it is possible that these represent restorations. There appears to be some restoration to some of the silver inlay in these areas. The surface of the tortoiseshell at the top is slightly discoloured and there is craquelure. There is wear including tarnishing to the silver, and there are losses to some sections of silver inlay. There is very minor stable splitting to sections of the mother of pearl inlay, and a there are chips and a few minor losses to the mother of pearl, including to the lid and to the underside. There are scratches and nicks throughout, and there are a few chips and to the tortoiseshell, particularly at the edges and corners. There is some warping to the metal lining on the inside of the lid. There are a few possibly later inserts to the tortoiseshell on the 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."

See P. Lorenzelli and A. Veca (eds.), Tra/e. Teche, pissidi, cofani e forzieri dall' Alto Medioevo al Barocco, exh. cat. Galleria Lorenzelli and Antiquaria Ltd, Bergamo, 1984, p. 378, no. 138.