Sino-Spanish colonial, probably Mexico, late 17th/ 18th century

Overall the condition of the tortoiseshell is good with wear and some dirt to the surface consistent with age. In several places thin connections between sections of the plaque have broken due to warping, including: at the tip of the Virgin's crown, at the top left corner, the left edge, the top edge, and at the Virgin's proper right shoulder. There is a loss to the top edge on the left side, and there are small chips and losses to the top and bottom edges and the bottom left corner. There are further minor chips to the edges of the carving, including the Virgin's halo and the dragon's snout and tongue. The silver frame is in good condition with slightly warped edges. There is some tarnishing to the silver at the front, particularly around the areas that are covered by tortoiseshell. The bottom section of the frame is slightly loose on the right side.
"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."

The plaque's motif of the Virgin on a crescent moon standing on a dragon appears in a Netherlandish etching by Michiel Snyders dated to after 1611 (see British Museum, inv. no. 1868,0612.393). The background motifs in the style of Chinese porcelain suggest that the tortoiseshell was carved by one of the artists of Chinese origin or training active in New Spain.