Martin Grober South German, mid-18th century

each scene numbered: CA.X, CA.IV, CA.XIX, CA.VI, CA.XII, CA.XIII

Overall the condition of the ivory is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The cases are composed of sections which screw into each other, and the joints are slightly visible. There are a few minor losses, including to the decoration at the bottom of the central section of the smaller case, and another to the tail of the dragon at the bottom of the larger case. There is some stable splitting to the ivory, consistent with the material, notably a split to the bottom of the central section of the larger case.
"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."

A tobacco pipe with micro-carvings of Old Testamtent scenes, also constructed in small sections that screw into each other and signed by Grober, is in the Museo d'Arti Applicate in Milan.

RELATED LITERATURE
O. Zastrow, Museo d'Arti Applicate. Gli avori, Milan, 1978, no. 154