Italian, German and French, 17th/ 18th century

Overall the condition of the keys is good, with wear and some dirt consistent with age. There is some oxidation to all keys, and minor corrosion to some, including to the bow of the key at the bottom at the centre. There are losses to the edge of the shaft of the key at the bottom left, and a fissure to the shaft of the bottom right key. There are further signs of wear to the keys, including nicks and scratches. The perspex stand is in good condition with minor wear.
"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."

Keys with a symmetrical network of soldered lines and circles in a round bow are usually described in the literature as the Venetian type but were also produced in Verona. A large group is pictured in the catalogue of the Pankofer collection, Schlüssel und Schloß, Munich, 1974, p. 48. The keys with the oval bows are probably French. Compare nos. 1519 and 1520 from the Schell Collection illustrated by Pall, Schlüssel und Schlösser. Exponate aus der Schell Collection Graz, Graz, 2012, p. 237.